Nigerian singer, actor, and social media personality Idowu Adeyemi, popularly known as Yhemolee, has voiced his frustration over the increasing rate of begging on social media platforms. The entertainer, known for his outspoken nature and sense of humor, took to his verified page to lament how social media has gradually transformed from a space for connection and creativity into what he describes as a “begging site.”
In a candid post, Yhemolee drew attention to what he termed the “new culture of digital begging,” noting that several users have turned online spaces into avenues to solicit money from strangers under the guise of hardship or emotional manipulation. According to him, this disturbing trend is eroding the authenticity of social engagement on social media.
“It’s no longer news that social media isn’t social media anymore. It’s now a begging site. The only difference is that unlike the beggars on the road, the beggars on the internet have data,” Yhemolee wrote.
He further lamented how nearly every social media post, regardless of its content, attracts people dropping their account numbers in the comment section in hopes of receiving money. “These days, when you post a picture, the first ten comments are account numbers. My major problem is those who have a PhD in begging. Please omit all those begging from my own picture,” he added.
The entertainer’s statement quickly sparked conversations among fans and fellow celebrities, with many agreeing that online begging has become increasingly rampant. While some social media users empathized with those who seek help online due to economic hardship, others supported Yhemolee’s view, arguing that the culture of begging online has become excessive and manipulative.
Social media platforms in Nigeria, particularly X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, and Facebook, have seen a rise in people requesting financial assistance in the comment sections of celebrities, influencers, and even brands. What began as occasional pleas for help has now evolved into a widespread habit, with some users reportedly creating multiple accounts solely to solicit funds.
Industry analysts note that this growing behavior highlights deeper social and economic issues within Nigeria, where rising unemployment, inflation, and financial instability have left many struggling to make ends meet. However, as Yhemolee pointed out, the problem lies not only in people seeking genuine assistance but in those who have made a lifestyle out of begging online.
The actor emphasized that many of these online beggars have become professionals in their craft, often using emotional stories or sympathy-driven comments to attract attention from celebrities and wealthy individuals. He called for more responsibility among social media users, urging them to uphold dignity and seek more productive means of improving their lives rather than relying on digital pity.
“It’s not wrong to ask for help,” one of Yhemolee’s fans commented under his post, “but when every comment section turns into a virtual market of account numbers, it takes away the joy of interacting online.”
Others praised the actor for speaking out, describing his statement as a wake-up call to Nigerians to reflect on the evolving culture of entitlement that now dominates online spaces.
Yhemolee’s comments also shed light on the pressure public figures face in the digital age. With millions of followers, celebrities often find themselves at the receiving end of endless requests for money, sponsorship, or favors. Many have confessed to feeling overwhelmed by the sheer volume of messages and comments demanding financial assistance, often couched in emotional language.
For Yhemolee, the issue is not just about the requests but the loss of genuine engagement on platforms once meant for entertainment, creativity, and connection. He believes that social media should remain a place for positive interaction rather than a virtual street corner where begging is normalized.
The actor’s post also resonated with several public figures who echoed similar sentiments. Some noted that while social media can be a lifeline for those in desperate situations, it has also been exploited by scammers and habitual beggars who prey on public sympathy.
Yhemolee’s stance reflects a broader concern within Nigeria’s online community — the growing tension between compassion and exploitation in digital interactions. As more people turn to the internet to share personal struggles, questions continue to arise about where to draw the line between genuine need and opportunism.
Beyond his recent outburst, Yhemolee has built a reputation as one of Nigeria’s most versatile entertainers. He first gained national attention with his hit single “Mon Cheri” featuring Chinko Ekun and Asake, a song that established him as a rising voice in Afrobeats. Over the years, he has transitioned seamlessly into acting, earning roles in some of Nollywood’s most talked-about productions, including “Gangs of Lagos” and “Alakada: Bad and Boujee.”
Known for his charismatic personality and honest opinions, Yhemolee has cultivated a loyal fan base that admires his humor, candor, and relatability. However, his recent post shows a more reflective side — one that expresses concern for the changing dynamics of Nigerian youth culture and the social pressures of the digital era.
Observers note that his message extends beyond entertainment and touches on a larger social truth: the rise of digital dependency. In a time when social media has become a mirror of real-life struggles, many people have resorted to online begging as a survival strategy. But Yhemolee’s words suggest a call for balance — compassion without exploitation, empathy without enabling dependency.
His statement also reignites discussion on the role of social media influencers and celebrities in addressing the consequences of fame in a country battling economic hardship. While entertainers are often expected to give back, Yhemolee’s point highlights the limits of individual generosity in solving systemic problems.
For many fans, his post serves as a reality check on the need for digital responsibility. The reactions online show that Nigerians are divided — some calling for understanding of people’s struggles, while others insist on restoring the original purpose of social platforms.
As the conversation continues, one thing remains clear: Yhemolee has once again used his voice not just to entertain but to spark meaningful dialogue. In an age where online culture often blurs the line between humor and hardship, his message stands as a reminder that while kindness remains essential, self-respect and integrity should never be compromised — even in the digital world.
