Media personality Raye Akpo Siemuri has ignited a wide-ranging online conversation after claiming that adding classism and exclusivity to a product makes it easier to sell to Nigerians. In a viral post on X, she stated, “You can sell anything to Nigerians, just add a little bit of classism and tell them it’s not for poor people, then watch them buy to prove they are not ‘poor’.” Her comment quickly resonated with many users, sparking both agreement and debate across social media platforms.
The post, which highlighted a common marketing tactic in Nigeria, drew attention to how branding and social status influence consumer choices. Many Nigerians responded with nods of recognition, acknowledging how premium pricing and “exclusive” labels often drive demand, especially in sectors like fashion, beauty, and lifestyle products. Some users pointed to the rising popularity of luxury wigs, high-end hair extensions, and designer accessories as examples where exclusivity is heavily marketed to appeal to aspirational buyers.
While a significant number of social media users supported Siemuri’s observation, others argued that the phenomenon is not unique to Nigeria. Commenters like @Tiny Phynix noted, “Not only in Nigeria, it’s a human thing and it happens abroad more than it does locally.” This perspective suggests that the desire to associate with status and success is a global consumer behavior, though it may be more pronounced in certain markets due to socio-economic dynamics.
Several users also highlighted how businesses leverage this psychology to boost sales. @Flora Tochi referenced the current trend in the wig industry, saying, “That’s what they are doing with wigs now… Luxury raw donor SDD bone straight yen yen yen.” Others, like @Shigaba Emmanuel Barnabas, described it as an “illusion of exclusivity,” implying that the perceived value is often manufactured rather than inherent.
Reactions ranged from humorous to critical. @Onyinye Uche joked, “Oya oh I sell original human hairs both for the poor and rich 😂😂😂,” while @Collins Bunde lamented, “Na olodo uprising😭,” suggesting a growing awareness of economic inequality and consumer exploitation. @Jovial Gift even accused Siemuri of being complicit, writing, “She’s guilty of that too.”
Despite the mixed responses, Siemuri’s post has sparked a broader conversation about consumerism, identity, and marketing in Nigeria. As brands continue to tap into social aspirations, understanding these behaviors will remain crucial for both marketers and consumers. The debate is likely to persist as more Nigerians reflect on how identity, class, and purchasing decisions are intertwined in today’s market.
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