Nigerian singer Mr Real has sparked controversy after rejecting economic advice recently offered by First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, declaring that he would rather “join banditry” than take up the small-scale businesses she suggested.
The “Legbegbe” crooner made the remark while reacting to comments by the First Lady, who encouraged low-income Nigerians to embrace small businesses as a means of achieving financial independence amid the country’s economic challenges.
Speaking at an event last Thursday, Mrs. Tinubu advised Nigerians with limited financial resources to consider ventures such as frying akara (bean cakes), roasting corn, or producing kuli-kuli (groundnut snacks). According to her, these businesses require relatively low start-up capital and can provide a sustainable source of income. 
However, Mr Real dismissed the suggestion, arguing that petty trading is not a practical solution to the economic hardship many Nigerians are currently facing. In a reaction that quickly gained attention on social media, the singer said he would rather turn to banditry than engage in the businesses recommended by the First Lady.
His comment has since generated mixed reactions online. While some social media users criticized the statement as reckless and inappropriate, others viewed it as an expression of frustration over the country’s worsening economic conditions rather than a literal endorsement of criminal activity.
