Veteran Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has ignited a firestorm of debate on social media following her unconventional advice to young women engaged in the so-called 'runs girl' lifestyle. During an appearance on The Morayo Show, hosted by Morayo Afolabi-Brown, the actress discussed survival, self-worth, and the difficult choices many women face amid Nigeria's harsh economic realities.
Shaffy Bello's Remarks on Survival and Dignity
In the interview, Bello emphasized that women do not need to expose their bodies or chase online validation to be considered attractive or successful. She stated, "The seeds that you sow matter. You don't have to show your boobs to be sexy, and you don't have to shake your bum bum to go viral." However, she also acknowledged the tough economic pressures that push women into survival strategies, including sex work.
Advice to 'Runs Girls' Draws Criticism
Bello advised young women involved in transactional sex to do it with respect and not remain in that lifestyle permanently. She said, "If what you are doing now is being a 'runs girl' to make money, you don't have to stay there. I understand it, I never judge. If you go be ashawo, do am well. Do it well with respect and your full-chest." She added that some women take such paths to support their families, feed their mothers, or send siblings to school, but urged them to aim for growth and better opportunities.
Public Outrage and Mixed Reactions
Many social media users expressed disappointment and anger. User @DaveOrakwue questioned, "What sort of advice is this?? Is this the kind of advice she would give her own daughter??? Would she allow her son marry a runs girl???" Another user, @tobikesh_, argued that most girls choose the easy way out, while @OkebugwuIk compared the advice to telling young men to engage in armed robbery temporarily. @olugt added, "No be everybody be role model. It's unfortunate that certain people in influential positions are influencing negatively."
Broader Context of the Debate
The controversy highlights ongoing societal debates about morality, survival, and the role of public figures in shaping youth behavior. Bello's comments have divided opinion, with some defending her pragmatic approach and others insisting that celebrities should promote only ethical choices.
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Shaffy Bello opened up about her personal decision to undergo tubal ligation 26 years ago to prevent having more children, despite her ex-husband's pleas to expand their family.
