TikTok influencer Shina Peller’s comments urging Nigerians to vent their frustrations at Oshodi Market instead of TikTok have sparked mixed reactions, as debates continue about social media’s role in public discourse and activism.
Shina Peller, a well-known TikTok influencer, recently stirred up a storm after advising Nigerians to take their frustrations to Oshodi Market instead of ranting on TikTok. This remark followed the viral "30DaysRantChallenge" on TikTok, which was initiated by an NYSC corps member who voiced concerns about the Nigerian government’s handling of the nation’s economic challenges and the difficulties Nigerians are facing due to inflation.
In a live-stream session, Peller expressed his disagreement with the rant challenge, stating, “If you’re going to rant, go to Oshodi Market, bring out your machetes and vent there. Don’t bring negativity here to TikTok. Let’s keep it a space for entertainment and enjoyment.” His comments quickly gained attention, and social media reactions were swift.
While some users backed Peller’s stance, arguing that TikTok should be kept free from negativity, others criticized him for disregarding those using social media to express frustration with the government. One person on X (formerly Twitter) wrote, “Peller’s right, TikTok should remain a fun platform.” But another countered, “Should people really go to Oshodi with machetes to vent? That was an unnecessary comment.”
The issue caught even more attention when celebrity music video director TG Omori joined the conversation, calling Peller “just a boy,” while others pointed out the lack of formal education in his rise to fame, suggesting that social media had played a significant role in making him a well-known figure.
Peller has not responded to the growing criticism, and the debate over the appropriate role of social media for activism versus entertainment continues. His remarks highlight the ongoing tension between online spaces for fun and those used for public discussion of societal issues.
