Retail company Bokku Mart has apologised following public backlash over a viral advert widely described as ethnically insensitive.
The controversy erupted after a content creator named Defolah posted a video on Bokku Mart’s social media page on Tuesday, where she used the phrase “Omo Igbo” in a context many considered derogatory toward people of South-East origin.
In the video, which was later deleted, she said: “No Omo Igbo can cheat me,” a statement that sparked outrage and calls for a boycott of the supermarket for allegedly promoting ethnic prejudice.
In a statement posted on its X handle on Friday, Bokku Mart described the language used in the advert as “offensive and hurtful,” stressing that it did not reflect the company’s values.
The company explained that the video originated from an external influencer and was published by a third-party agency without internal review but said it takes full responsibility for it.
We have strengthened our content approval and review process to ensure that such an incident does not happen again,” the company added.
Bokku Mart also reaffirmed its commitment to promoting unity and respecting Nigeria’s diversity, adding that it stands firmly against all forms of discrimination.
