Reno Omokri has strongly criticized footballers, entertainers, and artists who, after making huge fortunes during their active years, end up broke and attempt to shift the blame for their financial struggles onto the government and society.
According to Omokri, this mindset represents nothing but “mental laziness,” stressing that individuals in such professions must take full responsibility for their financial future and retirement. He noted that while it is unfortunate when national icons or celebrities fall into poverty, it is wrong to expect the government or the public to shoulder the consequences of their financial mismanagement.
In a lengthy post shared via his X account, Omokri wrote …
“Footballers Can’t Enjoy The Proceeds of Their Success Alone and Then Outsource Their Failure To Society.”
He explained that sportsmen, entertainers, athletes, and artists are not the responsibility of the government unless they serve in official positions as civil servants, where they would qualify for pensions or benefits under their terms of service. He cited the example of Joe Lasisi, who worked with the Nigerian Customs Service and still received his entitled payments and benefits even while earning from professional boxing.
Omokri emphasized that whenever these professionals carry out national assignments, they are usually compensated, and in cases where they are not, the public often rallies to demand their payment. Beyond that, he pointed out that many of them also receive generous gifts of cash, property, and other forms of appreciation from both the government and the public whenever they achieve major victories in tournaments or competitions.
He stressed that what they choose to do with such wealth is entirely up to them, but unfortunately, many squander it without proper planning. He further criticized the fact that most of these individuals do not even pay taxes in Nigeria, despite enjoying immense earnings and gifts. Yet, when financial hardship comes later in life, they are quick to blame the same society and government they never contributed back to.
“To then grow old in poverty and blame the government or society, either by themselves or through their friends and family, is tantamount to mental laziness and unawareness of how the world works,” he stated.
Omokri also highlighted that similar situations occur in developed countries such as the United States, the United Kingdom, and Canada, where many athletes and entertainers go broke but never shift blame to their governments. He mentioned English football legend Paul Gascoigne, who lost his £20 million fortune and now struggles with depression, yet never accused the government of his misfortune. He also referenced Trevor Sinclair as another example.
He argued that adopting such a blame mentality only makes these individuals further objects of ridicule. Instead, he said, they should have had people around them who could guide them financially, help them manage their wealth, and prepare them for retirement during their peak years.
Omokri concluded by stating that success must be properly managed, and people cannot “enjoy their success alone and then outsource their failure to society.”
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