Nollywood star Mercy Aigbe has become the internet’s latest source of laughter after taking extraordinary precautions to protect her new phones following a previous theft incident. The actress, clearly living by the mantra “once bitten, twice shy,” was captured on video at colleague Eniola Ajao’s “Owambe Thieves” movie premiere tucking her valuable devices securely into her bra – a moment that has since gone viral across social media platforms.
The humorous video shows Aigbe, dressed elegantly for the event, taking no chances with her new phones after losing two devices at a similar industry gathering just last month. The irony of implementing such vigilant security measures at a movie premiere titled “Owambe Thieves” – a film about party thieves – wasn’t lost on fans and colleagues, who quickly flooded the comments section with good-natured teasing and laughter.
Fellow Nollywood heavyweight Toyin Abraham playfully warned, “Lol. We will still Mercy Aigbe you,” suggesting the actress’s name has now become synonymous with phone theft in a lighthearted industry in-joke. Controversial personality Bobrisky showed solidarity with a simple “My sis,” while comedian Kiekie acknowledged the reasonableness of Aigbe’s caution with “E reach o” – a Nigerian expression indicating the situation warranted such measures.
The actress’s impromptu security system comes after a distressing incident at Iyabo Ojo’s movie premiere last month, where Aigbe suffered the loss of two phones that were in her assistant’s care. That incident prompted Ojo to make a public appeal during the event, offering financial compensation to anyone who could locate and return the stolen devices. The theft reportedly left Aigbe quite upset, though she was somewhat consoled by winning the Best Dressed Female award at the same event, which came with a prize of half a million naira.
Fans have been equally amused by Aigbe’s preventative measures, with social media user Akanbitheduke joking, “This time na you gan gan dem go steal,” suggesting the thieves might just take the entire person rather than just her phones. Another follower, They.callmebarbie, referenced biblical language with “Affliction shall not rise again,” while several others echoed the sentiment that stealing the actress herself might be the only option left for potential thieves.
The humorous moment has resonated particularly well with Nollywood fans because it showcases the relatable side of celebrity life – the understanding that even famous actresses face common problems like theft and must sometimes resort to creative solutions. Aigbe’s willingness to laugh at herself and share the moment has endeared her further to fans who appreciate celebrities who don’t take themselves too seriously.
Industry insiders note that phone theft at large Nigerian events has become increasingly common, with celebrities particularly vulnerable due to their high-value devices and the distraction of constant photo opportunities and fan interactions. At these premieres and industry events, stars are focused on networking and maintaining their public image. It’s easy to become distracted and lose track of personal belongings,” explains entertainment journalist Adewale Johnson. What makes Mercy’s reaction so relatable is that she’s addressing a genuine problem in a way that many Nigerians can identify with – improvising a practical solution with a touch of humor.
The incident also highlights the unique celebrity culture in Nollywood, where actors and actresses maintain close relationships with each other and often use social media to share lighthearted moments from their professional and personal lives. The camaraderie displayed in the comments section – with other industry figures teasing rather than criticizing – demonstrates the familial atmosphere that pervades Nigeria’s booming film industry.
Mercy Aigbe, who has established herself as one of Nollywood’s most stylish actresses over her decades-long career, is no stranger to public attention. While primarily known for her acting talent in numerous Nigerian films, she has also developed a reputation as a fashion icon. Her win as Best Dressed Female at last month’s event despite the phone theft incident confirms this status. According to industry watchers, Aigbe consistently ranks among Nollywood’s most fashionable celebrities, known for her elegant yet bold style choices at public events.
The actress’s quick thinking regarding phone security comes at an interesting time, as the premise of “Owambe Thieves” – the very event she was attending – centers around the phenomenon of party thieves who target celebratory gatherings. The coincidental timing of her safeguarding measures at a premiere for a film about theft has created a meta moment that hasn’t escaped notice from fans and media alike.
Social media user Mamarrazzii praised Aigbe’s street smarts with the comment, “As omo Benin wey sharp,” referring to the actress’s Benin heritage and the cultural stereotype of Benin people being particularly clever and resourceful.
While the moment has provided ample entertainment for fans, it also points to a more serious issue regarding security at high-profile events in Nigeria. Celebrity stylist Tolu Bally noted, “What seems funny actually highlights a recurring problem at these gatherings. Designers loan expensive accessories, celebrities bring multiple high-end devices, and security is often focused on the perimeter rather than personal belongings inside the venue.
For Mercy Aigbe, turning a potentially stressful situation into a moment of levity demonstrates the resilience and good humor that has helped sustain her lengthy career in Nigeria’s competitive entertainment industry. As she continues promoting her various projects and business ventures, this viral moment serves as a reminder that sometimes the most relatable celebrity moments are those that show stars dealing with everyday problems in creative ways.
Whether or not her improvised security system proves effective in the long run, Aigbe has certainly given fans a memorable moment – and perhaps inspired a few viewers to consider alternative phone storage options at their next large gathering.
