In a recent revelation, retired Deputy Commandant General (DCG) of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Shem Obafiaye, has shared the psychological impact the viral ‘Oga at the Top’ video had on him. Obafiaye, who was recently elevated to the rank of DCG by Interior Minister Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, announced his retirement from active service during an appearance on Channels TV Sunrise Daily.
Obafiaye expressed that the viral video had a significant effect on him psychologically, stating, “Definitely, it has to because I have never gone through such in my life.” Despite the widespread attention and global notoriety, he emphasized that the incident did not negatively impact his life. He shared insights into the advice given to him by his cousin, acknowledging the inevitability of national recognition being accompanied by embarrassment, harassment, and insults.
Contrary to circulating news, Obafiaye clarified that he was not sacked but redeployed after the viral interview. He explained, “I was not sacked, contrary to the news that was making the rounds. Immediately after the interview—and I was changed—my principal, who is my commandant general, just asked me to rest. I was at home for one month rest before they moved me to Oyo State Command.”
Obafiaye rose to prominence in Nigeria following a notable interview on Channels Television in 2013. During the interview, he struggled to provide the NSCDC’s website, leading to the now-famous phrase “Oga at the Top.” The compressed 1 minute 8-second video quickly went viral on social media, spawning remixes and merchandise with the ‘Oga at the Top’ logo.
In a lighter note, Obafiaye disclosed that he obtained a patent for the slogan. “We have the certificate; my wife did it, so we have the patent. Anywhere I hear ‘Oga At the Top’ without permission, na money o,” he stated jovially, hinting at potential legal actions to protect the slogan.
