I cannot even stand ‘Hi’ – Shaffy Bello says amid viral Elumelu video

Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has weighed in on the debate surrounding respectful address for elders, asserting that younger individuals should use appropriate titles rather than their first names. Her remarks come in the wake of a viral video showing UBA Chairman Tony Elumelu correcting a young woman for addressing him as "Tony" at a recent event.

“

When a child calls me by my name, Shaffy, I pull them closer and tell them, ‘You haven't earned the right, and you never will.’

Elumelu's response, where he requested to be called "Mr Elumelu" or "TOE," ignited a broader discussion about respect, age, and cultural norms in addressing older people. Bello shared her own experiences on a recent podcast, explaining that she finds it particularly uncomfortable when people significantly younger than her call her simply "Shaffy."

"When a child calls me by my name, Shaffy, I pull them closer and tell them, 'You haven't earned the right, and you never will,'" Bello stated. She noted that the situation is especially awkward when the younger person is around the same age as her own children. "I have a child as old as you are, and even if I do not have children, you have not earned the right and you will never earn the right at your age to call me by name," she added.

“

I have a child as old as you are, and even if I do not have children, you have not earned the right and you will never earn the right at your age to call me by name.

For Bello, the issue extends beyond first names. She believes that traditional forms of respect, such as "Ma'am," should be maintained. "Whatever happened to Ma'am?" she questioned, also expressing her dislike for the casual greeting "Hi." She attributed these generational differences partly to upbringing and cultural backgrounds, referencing practices in Nigeria and the United States. Bello mentioned that even in the U.S., children often use respectful titles when addressing older individuals, stating, "Even children in the U.S. call me 'Ma.'"

“

Whatever happened to Ma’am?

While acknowledging that upbringing and cultural context can influence interactions, Bello prefers to correct younger people with kindness rather than reacting harshly. She previously explained that when younger individuals greet her with "Hi Shaffy," she understands these factors but still prefers a more formal address.

“

There is even something about this ‘Hi’; I can’t stand it.