A Nigerian film director, Martins, has sparked reactions online after promoting a ₦22,000 akara platter located in the upscale Lekki Phase 1 area of Lagos.
The filmmaker described the premium bean cake as a hygienic upgrade from the typical roadside version. Sharing menu photos that showed prices ranging from ₦3,000 for four pieces to ₦75,000 for family-sized portions with flavours such as seafood and beef.
Martins further suggested that people could save weekly or even take a loan to afford the “immune-boosting” delicacy.
He wrote:
“Sometimes, you just have to close your eyes, spend a little, and spoil yourself.
If you can’t afford it immediately, save up and buy the akara later.
At least this particular one is actually good for your health and can help boost your immune system.”
The promotion has since triggered widespread backlash, with many Nigerians criticising what they described as poor financial advice. Especially amid the country’s current economic challenges.
“There is something called bad financial decisions, and buying akara for 22k is one of them. What is so special about akara that’ll make me want to buy it for 22k? You people should please,” one user wrote.
Others compared the ₦22,000 price tag to other items they believe would offer better value, listing things such as:
“20 packs of Golden Penny spaghetti
15 portions of Chicken Republic jollof or fried rice
10 tubers of yam
7 shawarmas
5 pieces of Chicken Republic chicken
2 plain white T-shirts
“1 plot of land in Zamfara”
However, not everyone disagreed. Another user admitted that while it might be a questionable financial decision, spending on food can still feel justified.
He wrote:
“I totally agree with you. But I’ll spend that money happily, knowing that it’s a bad financial decision, but because I’m spending it on food, I’m good.”
The debates continues online highlighting growing concerns about luxury spending and affordability in Nigeria’s current economic climate.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
