Eriata Ese Accuses Nigerian Businesses of Overpricing, Says Some Act “Worse Than Yahoo Boys”
Reality TV star Eriata Ese has sparked debate on social media after accusing some Nigerian business owners of overpricing their products, stating that “some Nigerian business owners act worse than Yahoo boys.”
The former Big Brother Naija housemate made the remark in a post that quickly gained traction online. In her statement, she criticised what she described as excessive markups on goods and services, arguing that certain businesses exploit customers under the guise of economic hardship.
Eriata suggested that while inflation and foreign exchange fluctuations have affected production and import costs, some vendors allegedly go beyond reasonable pricing adjustments. She claimed that a number of businesses take advantage of trends and demand to impose what she described as “unjustifiable” prices on consumers.
Her comment triggered mixed reactions across social media platforms. Some users agreed with her position, citing personal experiences of sharp price increases in fashion, beauty products, and everyday essentials. Others, however, defended business owners, pointing to rising operational expenses such as rent, transportation, import duties, and unstable exchange rates.
Economic analysts note that Nigeria’s challenging business climate—including currency volatility, high logistics costs, and inflation—has significantly impacted pricing structures. However, they also acknowledge that lack of regulatory oversight in certain sectors can create room for inconsistent pricing practices.
The conversation has since evolved into a broader discussion about consumer protection, ethical business practices, and transparency in pricing. Some social media users have called for stronger market regulation, while others encouraged customers to research alternatives and support businesses they perceive as fair.
As debates continue, Eriata Ese’s remarks have once again highlighted how celebrity voices can amplify public concerns about everyday economic realities in Nigeria.
About the Author
