From Doctor to Butcher: Ugezu Ugezu Warns Nigerians About the Dark Side of the ‘Japa’ Dream

Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Ugezu J. Ugezu, has issued a sobering warning about the harsh realities some Nigerians face after relocating abroad in pursuit of better opportunities, a trend popularly referred to as “Japa.”

In a recent Instagram post, Ugezu shared a cautionary tale about a Nigerian medical doctor who sold his clinic and moved to the United States, hoping for a brighter future. However, according to Ugezu, the doctor now works as a butcher in a U.S. meat shop and reportedly avoids fellow Nigerians to hide his current circumstances.

Ugezu used the story to underscore the misconception that life abroad is inherently better, urging Nigerians to think carefully before making such life-altering decisions.

“In the name of Japa, a practising medical doctor in Nigeria sold his clinic and relocated to the US. Finally, he is now in a US city. Guess what? He now works as a butcher in a meat shop, hiding from Nigerians to avoid being noticed. For how long?” he wrote.

He concluded with a word of caution: “A lot of things are not really what they appear. Be guided.”

The post has since ignited discussions online, with many reflecting on the risks, disillusionments, and hard truths that can accompany emigration.