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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Culture & Society

Knocks for Shaffy Bello over prostitution comment

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • Veteran actress Shaffy Bello sparked controversy with comments suggesting understanding and acceptance of prostitution as a means to survive.
  • Bello advised individuals not to remain in prostitution long-term and emphasized personal growth beyond such circumstances.
  • Her remarks divided fans, with some criticizing her stance while others defended her nuanced perspective.

Veteran Nigerian actress Shaffy Bello has ignited a firestorm of debate with her recent comments on prostitution. In an interview shared on YouTube, Bello stated that she understands individuals who engage in prostitution to make ends meet, particularly if it's a temporary necessity.

There are so many people out there that need my voice to hear that the seeds that you sow matter. That need to hear you don’t have to show your boobs to be sexy or shake your bum to go viral or get attention. And if what you are doing right now is being a runs girl to make money, I understand it. If you be ashewo, do it well and with respect, do it but don’t stay there. You are more than that.

— Shaffy BelloBello's statement on understanding and advising those in prostitution.

Bello, however, stressed that such a path should not be a permanent one. "If you be ashewo, do it well and with respect, do it but don’t stay there. You are more than that," she advised, urging people to recognize their potential beyond difficult circumstances.

I am an actor and every actor doesn’t have to be a producer. I face my lane and do what God asks me to do to have an impact. If God gives you the grace to be a producer and do films, run with it but right now, that’s not what He called me to do.

— Shaffy BelloBello explaining her focus on acting over movie production.

The actress also touched upon her career, explaining her focus on acting rather than movie production. She believes her gift lies in her ability to connect with audiences emotionally, leaving a lasting impact through her performances.

I was born with it, it’s not a skill. There are some things you cannot teach. It is just in you.

— Shaffy BelloBello describing her natural charisma and presence.

Bello's controversial take on prostitution drew immediate reactions from fans on social media. Many expressed disbelief and disagreement, questioning how one could engage in such activity with respect. Others, however, defended her remarks, interpreting them as a pragmatic acknowledgment of difficult realities rather than an endorsement. They argued that Bello was not encouraging prostitution but rather offering advice on navigating it if it becomes a necessity, emphasizing her point about not staying in such a situation indefinitely.

How does one do Ashawo with respect and dignity? That’s funny.

— Prince JamaA social media user's reaction to Bello's comments.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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