Scene showing the effect of the Bokku Mart boycott, with visibly reduced customer traffic at one of the supermarket’s Lagos outlets.
By peace Udugba
Bokku Mart, a popular Nigerian supermarket chain, is facing heavy criticism after airing an advertisement many have described as tribalistic and offensive to the Igbo community.
In the controversial ad, influencer Defolah claimed she could shop at Bokku Mart and buy items like beans and garri “without any Omo Igbo cheating me.” The statement sparked outrage across social media, with many accusing the brand of promoting ethnic stereotypes.
Calls for a boycott of the store quickly followed, with users vowing to shop elsewhere. In response, Bokku Mart issued a public apology, stating that the ad did not reflect its values and was never intended to offend.
Defolah has also apologized, but many Nigerians remain unconvinced, demanding that Bokku Mart take further action to demonstrate its commitment to diversity and inclusion.
The incident highlights growing public sensitivity around ethnic harmony and responsible advertising in Nigeria
