"I Think Obi Cubana, E-money and His Crew Are Not Good Influence To The Younger Generation" [OPINION]

 

Nigeria’s entertainment and social landscape is no stranger to the dazzling lifestyles of its most successful figures. Personalities like Obi Cubana, E-money, and their associates have built reputations around opulence, luxury, and an almost mythical sense of success. Lavish parties, fleets of expensive cars, and exotic vacations dominate their social media timelines, captivating millions of followers who look up to them as the very definition of achievement.

However, beneath the glitter lies a troubling reality: their flamboyant displays may be casting a long, dark shadow over the younger generation. Behavioral experts and concerned citizens are beginning to sound alarms about the societal consequences of this relentless parade of wealth. A growing sentiment suggests that the extravagant stunts are placing an unbearable burden on young people, pushing many toward unhealthy, and at times, criminal paths in their desperate bid to "make it."

Behavioral psychologist Albert Bandura’s theory of behavior modeling provides a compelling lens through which this phenomenon can be understood. According to Bandura, individuals, especially the young and impressionable, learn behaviors by observing others. When the most visible examples of "success" revolve around extravagant spending without visible processes of hard work or perseverance, the results can be devastating. Young minds, eager to emulate their idols, may resort to shortcuts — fraud, cybercrime, kidnapping, and even armed robbery — in a bid to replicate the material success they are constantly exposed to.

Entertainment is often defended as harmless fun, but when ostentatious living becomes the primary content, its influence runs deeper than mere amusement. A society where wealth flaunting overshadows values like diligence, integrity, and communal growth risks breeding a generation that equates financial worth with human worth. This cultural shift undermines the dignity of honest labor and magnifies social divides, pitting the "haves" against the "have-nots" in a race that often neglects ethical boundaries.

Thousands of hardworking individuals form the backbone of Nigeria’s economy — farmers, teachers, artisans, health workers, and small business owners who persevere daily without the blinding lights of fame. Their contribution remains pivotal, yet the current societal narrative glorifies sudden wealth rather than sustained effort. This misrepresentation fosters an environment where many feel their honest toil is insignificant unless crowned by luxury.

Calls for moderation in public displays of wealth are growing louder. Critics argue that influencers, celebrities, and business moguls must understand the weight of their platforms. Responsibility should accompany fame. Role models can still celebrate success, but with a consciousness of the message their lifestyle projects to millions of young people searching for their path.

Societies deemed civilized often pride themselves on minimizing the visible gap between social classes. In many developed countries, excessive public displays of wealth are often frowned upon, and success is measured not just by personal gain, but by contributions to community and societal welfare. Nigeria, with its vibrant culture and resilient spirit, stands to benefit from a similar reorientation — one that celebrates both prosperity and the journey toward it, without glorifying shortcuts or material excess.

Without undermining the efforts of figures like Obi Cubana and E-money, it is necessary to ask critical questions about the ripple effects of their public personas. Their success stories undoubtedly inspire, but when the narrative centers exclusively on results — the glistening jewelry, the mammoth mansions, the luxury convoys — it risks overshadowing the vital lessons of persistence, discipline, and patience.

Changing the narrative does not mean diminishing achievement; rather, it calls for a fuller, richer storytelling. Showcasing philanthropy, business growth processes, mentorship, and community development projects can present a more balanced image. By doing so, today’s role models can help rebuild a culture where wealth is not the sole marker of worth and where every honest endeavor is celebrated.

The future of the younger generation depends not just on what is said, but on what is shown. If today’s leaders, entrepreneurs, and celebrities temper their exhibitions with intentionality and modesty, they can help mold a society where the pursuit of success is honorable, ethical, and inclusive.

As conversations around these issues continue to grow, one message rings clear: every hardworking person matters. True progress lies not in widening the gap between the rich and the struggling, but in creating a society where dignity, hard work, and ethical success shine brighter than any diamond-studded wristwatch.