Nigerians have voiced their displeasure and threatened to boycott Erisco Foods due to the company’s ongoing persecution of reviewer Chioma Okoli.

Last September, the CEO of Erisco Foods threatened to file a N5 billion lawsuit against Okoli following her negative review of the company’s Tomato Paste. Despite Okoli’s apologies, the company’s CEO, Eric, declared on Arise Television that the persecution of Okoli would persist.

A viral video captured Okoli in tears as a result of the company’s legal action against her. Okoli’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, revealed that the Inspector General of Police subsequently charged her with “cybercrime.” They appeared at the Federal High Court in Abuja on February 29, 2024, to address the charge.

In response to these events, Nigerians took to social media, calling for a boycott of Erisco Foods. Activist and lawyer Dele Farotimi criticised the company for its oppressive and insensitive behavior, stating that they had abused their power.

Many individuals expressed their refusal to purchase any products made by Erisco Foods due to the brand’s association with oppression and bullying. They cited Chioma Okoli’s mistreatment as the reason for their decision.

The sentiment among Nigerians is that Erisco Foods’ treatment of Chioma Okoli amounts to bullying. They argue that Okoli’s review did not explicitly state that the product was bad; it was simply an honest assessment. Nigerians believe that Erisco Foods’ actions are a reflection of the lawlessness and lack of accountability in the country.

As a result, numerous individuals have chosen to exercise their right to boycott Erisco Foods, viewing it as a personal choice against oppression and bullying.