The popular Nigerian comedian addresses the controversy head-on as public outrage continues to grow
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Popular Nigerian comedian Apama has finally broken his silence amid the storm surrounding the arrest of Ifeanyi Onukwubiri — the visa agent at the centre of a massive fraud scandal that has left over 200 Nigerians counting their losses.
As news of Onukwubiri’s arrest spread like wildfire across social media, angry Nigerians wasted no time dragging Apama into the conversation, with many calling for the comedian to also face the law. The calls grew louder by the hour, with several Nigerians insisting that he had a hand in the alleged scam.
But Apama is having none of it.
In a no-holds-barred response, the comedian emphatically denied ever benefiting financially from his association with TMT — the outfit linked to the embattled visa agent.
“For those saying I should be arrested, I have never collected a dime from TMT,” Apama declared, pushing back firmly against what he described as unfair accusations.
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The Backstory: How Over 200 Nigerians Were Left Stranded
The scandal involves Ifeanyi Onukwubiri, who allegedly collected money from hundreds of unsuspecting Nigerians under the guise of processing their international visas — only for the funds to vanish and the visas to never materialise. For many victims, these were life savings, business opportunities, and dreams of a better life abroad. The kind of heartbreak that does not just empty a pocket — it breaks a spirit.
As details of the arrest began trending, Nigerians — true to form — went on a full investigation mode on social media, connecting dots and calling out anyone they believed had promoted or been associated with the fraudulent operation.
Apama, who had previously been linked to or spotted promoting TMT-related content, quickly found himself in the crosshairs of public anger.
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Apama’s Defence: “Don’t Come For Me”
The comedian’s message was clear — he is not the enemy here. While he acknowledged his connection to the brand in some capacity, he insisted that any involvement was not financial and that he never personally profited from any transactions that may have harmed victims.
For many Nigerians who have watched celebrities and influencers casually lend their faces to dubious schemes without consequence, Apama’s statement will either be a relief or fuel for even more suspicion — depending on who you ask.
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The Bigger Conversation Nigeria Needs To Have
This saga is yet another reminder of a painful reality: visa fraud remains one of the most devastating forms of financial crime in Nigeria today. Desperate to escape harsh economic conditions, many Nigerians hand over hundreds of thousands — sometimes millions — of naira to agents promising foreign opportunities, only to be left with nothing but regret.
Celebrities and public figures who consciously or unconsciously lend credibility to such operations — whether through endorsements, social media posts, or mere association — must also ask themselves the hard questions. In a country where a familiar face equals instant trust, influence comes with serious responsibility.
As for Apama, only time — and perhaps a thorough investigation — will tell whether his statement is enough to clear his name in the court of public opinion.
One thing is certain though: the victims deserve justice, and Nigerians are watching.
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What do you think? Should celebrities be held more accountable for the brands and individuals they associate with? Drop your thoughts in the comments below.
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