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Popular Nigerian comedian Prophet Rolex recently caused a stir on social media after posting an image of a Sierra Leonean passport alongside a U.S. passport with the caption, “Am tired o.”
The post quickly gained attention, leading to a wave of reactions from Sierra Leoneans questioning how a Nigerian comedian could acquire a Sierra Leonean passport.
Many Facebook users voiced concerns about the accessibility and potential misuse of Sierra Leone’s passport. One user commented, “Our passport has turned into an ordinary bus ticket, which everyone from nowhere around the world can access and afford easily.”
Others expressed frustration about foreigners seemingly taking advantage of the benefits associated with the Sierra Leonean passport. Another user remarked, “See how foreigners are leveraging the benefits of our passport.”
Some users were more critical of the comedian, accusing him of contributing to the country’s challenges. “This is very bad bro, na una dey put us for problem in Sierra Leone here. I believe you have never been in Sierra Leone, but you are surfacing Sierra Leone passport on your Facebook account… Many Nigerians are suffering here because of the people making those passports for you guys.”
Another user also questioned how Prophet Rolex obtained the passport without visiting Sierra Leone: “U never visited Sierra Leone before, so how did you manage to get the passport?”
A more concerned comment came from a user based in Germany: “Guy, this is not a play. A lot of Nigerians and other nationals are claiming that they are Sierra Leoneans. These people are the same ones committing crimes abroad. When asked, they say they are from Sierra Leone, even though they don’t speak any Sierra Leonean language. This is affecting us citizens in Germany. Believe me, I’m saying the truth.”
As the debate continues, many Sierra Leoneans are calling for clarification from authorities on the passport issuance process, highlighting concerns about misuse and its impact on the country’s international reputation.
I think Sierra Leoneans need to be more responsible. Believing that Sierra Leonans both at home and in diaspora are not deeply involved in criminal activities, such as internet fraud, drug trafficking, and other corrupt practices, is irresponsible and unhelpful. It is the same tolerance for crime that allows foreigners to buy our passports for almost nothing. We must take responsibility for ourselves and stop blaming foreigners anytime we are caught up…