Award-winning content creator expresses deep frustration over aggressive street extortion, describing the rising trend as a widespread pandemic.
Popular Nigerian comedian and digital content creator Emmanuel Chukwuemeka Ejekwu, widely known as Sabinus, has publicly condemned the rising activities of street urchins and local extortionists, commonly referred to as “agberos,” across Lagos State.
The award-winning entertainer voiced his frustration following viral footage on social media depicting a group of young men causing chaos and blocking a luxury vehicle from leaving the Onikan Stadium area in Lagos.
Comedian Addresses Online Backlash over Civic Criticism
Reacting to the incident on his official social media platforms, Sabinus described the aggressive street harassment as an ongoing “agbero pandemic” that continues to disrupt daily public life and business activities in major commercial hubs.
He expressed disappointment that speaking out against street extortion often draws unprovoked attacks and criticism from internet users rather than constructive solutions from local authorities.
“If I dey talk about this agbero pandemic for Lagos, una go begin attack person,” Sabinus stated in his post. “Just look at grown men and people’s breadwinners making a mess of themselves. I don wash my hands for this matter.”
The comedian noted that witnessing able-bodied adults engage in systemic harassment and extortion on public roads reflects poorly on community standards and local enforcement efforts.
Public Frustration Mounts Over Street Extortion
The comedian’s comments have amplified a broader ongoing public discussion across Nigeria regarding the safety of motorists, visitors, and commercial drivers navigating Lagos streets.
Citizens and media personalities have repeatedly voiced concerns over the intimidation tactics employed by unauthorized revenue collectors, who frequently demand cash payments and impede vehicular movement across various public spaces.
Social media users continue to react strongly to Sabinus’ statement, with many calling on relevant state authorities and law enforcement agencies to institute stricter measures to curb street harassment and safeguard public transport corridors.
