Social Media Buzz: Fake iPhones Exposed, 2Baba Making Headlines, and NCC’s Shocking Pirate Suggestion!

Curious about the latest buzz in the digital world this week? The internet never fails to deliver a rollercoaster of emotions-from excitement to frustration. That’s why we bring you this weekly social media digest, highlighting the most talked-about stories and viral moments.

The Wemimo Saga: Apple Store Lekki Under Fire

Gbenga Samuel-Wemimo and his wife, while relaxing in London, attempted to upgrade their iPhone at an Apple Store, only to discover that the device, originally purchased from Apple Store Lekki in Lagos the previous year, was flagged as stolen. Despite presenting all purchase receipts and communication records, the store refused to assist. Legal representatives from Meliora Law Partners stepped in, demanding the phone be removed from the blacklist and compensation for the ordeal. In response, Apple Store Lekki went silent, deleting their social media posts, leaving customers questioning their commitment to consumer rights and corporate responsibility. This incident underscores the challenges Nigerian consumers face and the power of social media in holding corporations accountable.

2Baba’s “African Queen” Tops Afrobeats Classics

Celebrating a timeless hit, 2Baba’s “African Queen” has been crowned the number one song on Billboard’s inaugural list of the 50 Best Afrobeats Songs. Originally released in 2004 and gaining international recognition through the 2006 film “Phat Girlz,” this blend of Nigerian highlife and R&B continues to captivate audiences. Streaming data from Luminate reveals a 150% increase in Afrobeats consumption between 2020 and 2023, fueled by a growing African diaspora in the U.S., which numbered over 2 million by 2015 according to Pew Research. This milestone highlights the enduring global appeal of Nigerian music.

NCC’s Unconventional Advice: Encouraging Data Piracy?

The Nigerian Communications Commission (NCC) recently sparked controversy by suggesting that Nigerians should curb their data usage by downloading content instead of streaming. With MTN dominating 51.09% of the telecom market and data priced at approximately $0.87 per GB, the NCC’s advice aims to help users save money. However, UNESCO’s 2022 report warns that such practices could inadvertently promote piracy, potentially costing Nollywood an estimated $2 billion annually. This debate highlights the tension between affordable internet access and protecting creative industries in Nigeria.

One social media user bluntly summarized the sentiment: “Again, define madness and give two examples. STOP STREAMING AND DOWNLOAD.“

Questioning Get-Rich-Quick Schemes Amid Economic Realities

Financial influencer @Big_Mck criticized @iyekefejiymg’s claim of turning ₦5 million into ₦31.5 million through Mutual Benefits, calling out the unrealistic expectations set for Nigerians. According to the 2025 Nigerian Financial Services Market Report, only 2.4% of Nigerians earn above ₦200,000 monthly, making such investments inaccessible for most. The recent $835 million Florida Mutual Benefits Ponzi scandal and warnings on their own website further fuel skepticism. Coupled with ongoing challenges like floods, insurgency, and the 2023 demonetization, poverty remains a significant barrier, not a lack of intelligence.

UNILAG Students Face Soaring Hostel Costs Amid Inflation

Students at the University of Lagos (UNILAG) are grappling with a 40% increase in private hostel rents, with single rooms now costing up to ₦950,000 per academic session. This surge comes amid Nigeria’s inflation rate hitting 33.69% in July 2025, severely impacting affordability. Memories of the 2012 protests against the university’s renaming to Moshood Abiola University still linger, as documented by the BBC. Meanwhile, cuts in U.S. aid by 75% since early 2025 have contributed to malnutrition affecting 5 million Nigerian children, according to Al Jazeera. These hardships compound the challenges young Nigerians face in accessing education and basic needs.

TikTok Educator Geh Geh Draws Massive Audience and Income

Meet Geh Geh, a young Nigerian content creator who has taken TikTok by storm, attracting over 136,000 live viewers during his online classes. His engaging approach has earned him thousands of dollars through TikTok gifts, sparking conversations about the potential of digital platforms for education and income generation. Branding his initiative as the “University of Wisdom and Understanding,” Geh Geh exemplifies how entertainment and learning can merge to captivate Nigerian audiences eager for knowledge and financial empowerment.

The Ongoing Debate: Men, Women, and Household Responsibilities

The discussion about men’s participation in household chores has resurfaced, igniting passionate exchanges online. In response to a tweet claiming women shouldn’t “slave” for men, Adenike Danjuma (@DeNiike_) declared her commitment to doing everything possible to support and care for her partner, even if it means serving him. This statement sparked a heated “nepo vs nepo” debate, reflecting broader societal tensions around gender roles and expectations in Nigerian relationships.

Japan Opens Doors to Nigerian Professionals with New Visa Program

During the Ninth Tokyo International Conference on African Development (TICAD9) held in Yokohama from August 20-22, 2025, Japan announced a special designation for Kisarazu as a hub for Nigerian professionals. The new visa initiative aims to attract skilled workers, innovators, and artisans, addressing Japan’s labor shortages while strengthening cultural and economic ties with Nigeria. Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba emphasized this as a strategic move to deepen bilateral relations, with Nigeria’s charge d’affaires receiving the official certificate on behalf of the country.

Exposing Police Misconduct: The Somto Incident

Somto’s encounter with Nigerian police officers took a troubling turn when he was stopped and asked for identification. While cooperating, the officers became suspicious of his glasses, which contained a hidden recording device. These spy glasses captured footage of a police officer in a dilapidated uniform assaulting a citizen, shedding light on ongoing issues of police misconduct. The video has since circulated widely, fueling calls for accountability and reform within the Nigerian Police Force.

Wrapping Up This Week’s Social Media Highlights

That concludes our roundup of the most compelling social media stories this week. Did we overlook any major drama, like the latest Big Brother saga? Share your thoughts in the comments below!