The viral encounter between a young UBA graduate and billionaire businessman, Tony Elumelu has taken an unexpected twist after the Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Delta State government, Ossai Ovie Success offered her ₦500,000, a VIP trip and an ambassadorial deal.
The young woman became the subject of intense online debate after an old video resurfaced showing her addressing Elumelu as “Tony” during an encounter, a moment that attracted criticism from some Nigerians who viewed her approach as disrespectful.
However, as the controversy continued to generate reactions online, he stepped in with an unusual offer.
In a Facebook post, Ossai announced that he would give the graduate ₦500,000 in cash, alongside a complimentary VIP trip to the fourth edition of the Delta Social Media Summit scheduled to hold on August 27, 2026.
According to him, the package would include flight tickets to Asaba, five-star hotel accommodation, a guided tour of developmental projects in Delta State and VIP access to the summit.
He also offered the young woman a brand ambassador role for the Delta Social Media Summit, effectively turning the controversy surrounding her into an opportunity for her.
The offer has added a dramatic twist to a controversy that began over what many considered a simple breach of social etiquette.
While some Nigerians have criticised the graduate for allegedly failing to show the businessman the level of respect they believe his status demands, others have argued that the backlash against her has become excessive.
Ossai appeared to support those calling for an end to the criticism, acknowledging that the young woman may have made a mistake but insisting that she should not be subjected to prolonged online attacks.
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“I know the internet can be harsh. Depression is real and words cut deep,” he said. He added that although she made a mistake, “we don’t need to torment her daily.”
Ossai also thanked Elumelu for correcting the young woman during the encounter.
“Thank you Mr. Tony Elumelu for pointing out the needed correction that will further strengthen respect in our society,” he wrote.
His intervention has, however, raised another question among social media users: has a controversy over how a young graduate addressed a billionaire unexpectedly turned into a major opportunity for her?
What started with criticism could now see the graduate receive ₦500,000 in cash, enjoy a VIP trip, stay in a five-star hotel and potentially become an ambassador for a major social media event.
Ossai urged anyone who knows the young woman to encourage her to contact him, saying he wanted to give her an opportunity to share her story.
“I will give her a good time and a platform to tell her story,” he said. “Let’s turn this pain into purpose.”
The development has further divided opinions online, with some Nigerians maintaining that the graduate should learn from the incident, while others believe the intense criticism she received was unnecessary.
