Former Big Brother Naija reality star Vee has sent shockwaves across social media after revealing the traumatic abuse she endured as a child simply for being left-handed. The popular entertainer shared heartbreaking details of how she was subjected to physical violence and cruel punishment for what many Nigerian families traditionally considered "the devil's hand."
The Painful Revelation
In an emotional disclosure that has since gone viral, Vee described how family members and teachers would beat her mercilessly whenever she used her left hand. Even more disturbing was her account of being cut with razor blades on her left hand - a brutal method some Nigerian communities historically used to "correct" left-handed children.
"Growing up left-handed in Nigeria came with its own share of trauma," Vee revealed, explaining how this widespread practice has left psychological scars on many Nigerians of her generation.
Nigerians Share Similar Experiences
The revelation has opened floodgates of shared experiences across Nigerian social media, with thousands recounting their own stories of punishment for left-handedness. Many described being caned in school, having their left hands tied behind their backs, or facing constant criticism from elders who viewed left-handedness as abnormal or even evil.
One Twitter user wrote: "They used to call it 'ogbonna hand' (foolish hand) and would beat me until my hands were swollen. Today, I'm ambidextrous but the memories remain."
The Cultural Context
This practice stems from deep-rooted cultural beliefs in many Nigerian communities where left-handedness was associated with:
- Bad luck and negative spiritual influences
- Disrespect, especially when handing items to elders
- Social deviance and rebellion against norms
- Association with witchcraft in some traditional beliefs
Changing Times and Modern Perspectives
Fortunately, medical and educational advancements have helped change these outdated perceptions. Modern Nigerian parents and educators are increasingly accepting left-handedness as a natural variation in human development rather than something that needs "correction."
Child development experts have weighed in, emphasizing that forcing children to switch handedness can lead to:
- Learning difficulties and speech problems
- Psychological trauma and low self-esteem
- Confusion in motor skills development
- Long-term emotional scars
National Conversation Sparks Change
Vee's courage in sharing her story has ignited an important national dialogue about harmful traditional practices and child rights. Many Nigerians are now calling for greater awareness and education to prevent such practices from continuing in modern society.
The conversation has highlighted how cultural evolution is essential for protecting children from unnecessary trauma while still preserving positive aspects of Nigerian heritage.
As one parent commented: "We must learn from past mistakes. My children will never experience what Vee and millions of other Nigerians went through simply for being born different."
