Popular media personality Do2dtun has sparked conversation online after cautioning Nigerians living abroad against discouraging others from seeking opportunities outside the country.

In a strongly-worded post, Do2dtun argued that it is hypocritical for those who have successfully relocated abroad (“japaed”) to lecture others on why they shouldn’t take the same leap.

According to him, unless such individuals have returned to Nigeria and are currently living through its realities, they are in no position to dissuade others from following the same path.

He wrote:

“If you japaed, stop advising people on why they should not come over. If you haven’t moved back to Nigeria; you still live there, pls shut up. You are not qualified to discourage people who want to follow the same path. Keep your advice to yourself. If e too hard, come back. Let others try.”

Do2dtun also took aim at a wider societal problem in Nigeria—the culture of silence in the face of power. He criticised those who defend the wealthy or influential, even when they are wrong, describing such behaviour as “gaslighting” and rooted in a slave mentality.

“In Nigeria, it’s a crime to challenge a rich man. You will see how angry a gaslighting, God-forsaken, ignorant, alatenuje; disoriented & slave mentality individual who sees them as mentors will attack you for challenging them when they are wrong.”

Opinion

Do2dtun’s words may be blunt, but they highlight two deep truths about the Nigerian experience—the pursuit of greener pastures abroad and the culture of silence at home.

On the first, it’s undeniable that many Nigerians see migration as an escape route from hardship and a doorway to opportunity. While the realities of living abroad can be tough—loneliness, racism, and bills—telling others not to try, especially when one has already benefited, often comes off as selfish and dismissive. People deserve the chance to make their own decisions and write their own stories.

On the second, his criticism of how Nigerians treat the wealthy is painfully accurate. In many cases, the rich and powerful are seen as untouchable, while anyone who dares to question them is attacked, not for being wrong, but for “challenging authority.” This culture of hero-worship and silence only deepens inequality and stifles progress.

Do2dtun may have used sharp words, but perhaps that is what Nigeria needs right now—a little bit of uncomfortable honesty. After all, silence never changed any nation; bold conversations do.