Grace to Grass (2):How Alex the fish pie boy fell from being Eko hotel signee to street again

In a tragic twist of events, Alex Evalsam, the popular fish pie seller who captivated millions of Nigerians with his unique salesmanship, has fallen from stardom to the streets.

Nigeria is a country where inspiring stories often dominate social media timelines. Alex “The Fish Pie Seller” actually captured the hearts of Nigerians with his soulful chants and captivating style of hawking fish pies, which quickly went viral, turning him from an ordinary street vendor into an internet sensation. But what was supposed to be an iconic story turned into a cautionary tale, as it came crashing down, leaving many wondering how he went from performing at the prestigious Eko Hotel to wandering on the streets again.

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From the Streets to the Stage

Alex’s journey to fame began when a video of him creatively advertising fish pies went viral across social media platforms. His charisma and innovative sales tactics endeared him to Nigerians. People marvelled at his ability to turn something as mundane as hawking into a captivating, melodious performance.

Alex, as a young boy from Cross River State,  had the fame as his viral video opened doors for him. Nos Mirage featured him in her comic skits. One Mr. Amos was also reported to have given him a shop and money for business. He was invited to perform at Eko Hotel, one of Lagos’ most iconic venues, where he stood before a packed audience of over 200 people. Social media buzzed with praises for Alex, and many saw him as a representation of what determination and creativity could achieve in Nigeria. At this point, it seemed like the sky was the limit for the young man.

But unfortunately, Alex didn’t perform to taste at Eko Hotel’s event. The crowd didn’t feel his talent as expected, and this seems to be the beginning of his woes.

The reasons behind Alex’s fall

Alex’s success was short-lived. Reports have emerged detailing how poor decisions, mismanagement, and pride led to his downfall. According to insiders, Alex’s sudden fame seems to have gotten into his head. One content creator revealed on Facebook that Alex demanded ₦300,000 for a collaboration—an amount many felt was exorbitant for someone still at the beginning of their career. This decision reportedly turned away potential collaborators who could have helped him maintain his relevance.

Also, his clash with Mr. Amos, a philanthropist on Facebook who allegedly gave him money for business. According to Mr. Amos, Alex was ungrateful and didn’t acknowledge him. He dragged the fish pie on social media, listing his bad behaviours. This made a lot of people have a negative perception of Alex.

Furthermore, his management team has been accused of failing to guide him properly. Instead of capitalising on his talent and building a sustainable brand, they allegedly prioritised short-term gains over long-term growth. Alex’s quick rise to fame may have created unrealistic expectations, which, when unmet, led to a decline in public interest.

As Alex returned to hawking on the streets, Nigerians took to social media to express their feelings about his situation. Videos and photos of Alex back on the streets have gone viral again, but this time, the narrative has shifted. On TikTok, Facebook, and Instagram, reactions have been mixed.

Alex opens up 

Alex, in a viral video, opened up that he was used and dumped. He debunked all the stories about alleged money given to him for business. He said, “The rumours that they gave me N10 million, N5 million, and more are untrue. The truth is, many of these people took advantage of me. If they had given me all that money, I am a businessman and would have used it to stock my shop,” he said.

“But if you visit my shop now, it is empty, and there are no goods. I have not even launched the shop due to one issue or another. Many people think I am enjoying all the money they claim they gave me, but that is a lie.

“I am going through a lot, but I am surviving on the grace of God. Many may call me ungrateful, but I am speaking the truth, not a lie. All those gifts they say they gave me are a scam. Some even wished me death.”

“The truth is that I do not have a Facebook page, and all those accounts with millions of views are not mine. My first one was taken from me, and another person used it.”

“I have not made a dime from social media, and the only time I make money is when they call me for skit-making. I don’t know how to make money on social media, and it’s only now that I’m learning.”

Netizens reactions

Many Nigerians sympathise with Alex, expressing sadness that someone with so much potential has seemingly fallen through the cracks. One commenter on Instagram wrote, “Fame without wisdom is dangerous. I feel so bad for him. He needs a mentor.”

Others, however, have been more critical. Some accuse Alex of squandering the opportunities he was given, while others blame his management for not setting him up for sustainable success. “This is what happens when you let fame get into your head too quickly,” a Facebook user remarked.

Also, VDM, a media personality, had expressed that Alex has no strong talent except his “Fish pieeeee, nawaoo” sing-song phrase. He, however, promised to help in any way he can.

Also, BlessingCeo, an online relationship therapist, said this about Alex: “To blow is opportunity, but to grow is hard work.”. She noted that Alex belongs to the Gen Z group that can’t handle fame and success very well.

Despite the criticism, there is a lingering question on everyone’s mind: Can Alex rise again?

Alex Evalsam’s story is a poignant reminder of the fleeting nature of internet fame.

While his return to the streets might be disheartening, it doesn’t have to be the end of his story. His talent is undeniable, and his ability to turn something as simple as selling fish pies into an art form remains impressive. What he needs now is strategic guidance and humility.

Success in the entertainment and business world requires more than talent; it demands discipline, mentorship, and the ability to make sound decisions. Alex’s journey could serve as a powerful comeback story if he learns from his mistakes and finds the right team to help him rebuild. With his natural charisma and a renewed focus, Alex could once again capture the hearts of Nigerians—and perhaps this time, with a more sustainable approach.

Alex the Fish Pie Seller’s grace to grass is a stark reminder of how quickly fame can fade if not properly managed. It’s a story of potential unrealised, but also one that holds the possibility of redemption.

The internet might be quick to celebrate new sensations, but it’s equally quick to move on to the next big thing. His story also highlights the importance of grounding oneself, seeking wise counsel, and making thoughtful decisions, especially in the face of sudden success.

Anyways, Nigerians love a comeback story, and the door is always open for a second chance. Will Alex make it again?