A Nigerian man has stirred controversy online after sharing his perspective on escaping poverty. In a viral video on X (formerly Twitter), he suggested that individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds may need to adopt a mindset prioritizing personal growth over emotional responsibilities for a period of time.
He said, “For everyone coming from a poor background, at a level, for at least five years of your life, you need a level of wickedness. You’ll see people that you love suffering, and you won’t do anything about it… That’s just the way to come out of poverty.” He stressed that this approach, focusing fully on personal development, helps individuals build stability before they can support others.
Mixed Reactions Online
The video has triggered varied responses:
Supportive but cautious:
“Do not abandon your family but prioritize yourself first! You need to become stable first before giving to others.”
“It’s discipline he’s talking about. He didn’t say you should turn to prime Chiwetalu Agu around your family members.”
Agreeing with the harsh truth:
“Some people actually did this and it worked for them.”
“Bro this is true man. Along the way out of kindness, man don lose everything…”
“Poverty is not something you can escape with a clear eye, you have to stay wicked…”
Critical of the advice:
“Nahhh I do not support this… What does family and togetherness stand for? So you’d rather let your family suffer?”
“The word ‘Wicked’ is wrong; ‘Putting yourself first’ would have been the right thing to say.”
Others pointed out the dangers of blindly following such advice, warning that prioritizing personal gain without balance can lead to social and emotional consequences.
Published by Ejoh Caleb
