Nigerian comedian and skit maker, Chukwuebuka Amuzie, popularly known as Brain Jotter, has raised concerns over an alleged confrontation with suspected street touts in Lagos.
Brain Jotter shared a video of the encounter on Instagram on Tuesday, showing several men surrounding his vehicle and allegedly demanding money before allowing him to proceed.
He accompanied the video with the caption, “Nigerian zoo keepers are the worst. We lack good wild life and they let a lion escape from the zoo this is sad.”
The incident has sparked fresh discussions about the activities of area boys and agberos across Lagos, particularly allegations of harassment and extortion of motorists.
It comes shortly after DJ Salt of Life, Saltiana, the younger sister of singer Ayra Starr, alleged that suspected area boys attacked her vehicle after reportedly mistaking her for the musician.
Other public figures, including medical doctor Olusina Ajidahun, known as The Bearded Sina, and music video director TG Omori, have also previously shared experiences involving alleged harassment or demands for money by street touts.
Ajidahun, for instance, alleged that touts disrupted a free medical programme in Mushin after demanding payment.
Lagos State Commissioner for the Environment and Water Resources, Tokunbo Wahab, has previously blamed public cash handouts to street touts for helping to sustain the problem. He urged residents and celebrities to stop encouraging the practice.
Brain Jotter’s experience has since generated reactions on social media, with some users condemning the alleged behaviour of the men and others calling for stronger action against street touts.
One user, #Abraham06084565, claimed the confrontation occurred in Bariga after a show and alleged that the men approached the comedian after he refused to “settle” them.
The latest complaint has again brought attention to concerns over alleged extortion and harassment of motorists across parts of Lagos.