Popular Nigerian rapper and social commentator, Erhiga Agarivbie, widely known as Erigga, has stirred up social media following a blunt critique of contemporary romantic relationships in Nigeria. In a strongly-worded statement posted on his official platform, Erigga questioned the authenticity and values of many relationships involving Nigerian women, asserting that what many people call “relationships” today are driven more by materialism than genuine emotional connection.
His comments, which quickly went viral, have reignited conversations around dating norms, expectations, and gender roles in the modern Nigerian society. While some have hailed his statement as a necessary truth, others—especially among female voices—have described it as an unfair generalization.
Erigga’s Statement Sparks Reactions
In his post, Erigga did not mince words. He expressed disappointment in what he described as the rising culture of entitlement, transactional love, and emotional manipulation in many romantic engagements today.
“What you people are doing is not a relationship. It’s manipulation, entitlement, and premium billing all wrapped in affection,” Erigga wrote.
He claimed that a large number of young women today are more interested in what they can get from a man materially than in building a relationship based on love, trust, and shared values. According to him, relationships have become business-like transactions, where financial capability is weighed more heavily than emotional compatibility.
“If you remove money from the equation, many of these so-called ‘love stories’ will collapse in one day,” he added.
A Broader Social Commentary
Erigga’s statement wasn’t just about women—it was a criticism of the larger social dynamics that govern modern relationships, particularly among Nigerian youth. The Warri-born rapper, known for his street-savvy lyrics and frank social observations, pointed out that men, too, are under immense pressure to maintain relationships that are financially draining and emotionally unfulfilling.
“Young men are working round the clock not because they want to build a future, but because they are scared of losing a girlfriend who only stays loyal as long as the alerts keep coming,” he noted.
According to Erigga, such relationships foster mental stress, low self-worth, and a distorted view of love and partnership. He urged both men and women to rethink their approach to relationships and return to the values of loyalty, honesty, and mutual respect.
Social Media Erupts: Mixed Reactions Trail Erigga’s View
Following Erigga’s post, social media was set abuzz with reactions, with thousands weighing in on both sides of the divide.
Many male followers echoed his sentiments, praising him for “saying it as it is.” One user wrote, “Erigga has just voiced what every young man is thinking but is too afraid to say.”
Others pointed to their personal experiences, claiming that they had endured emotionally and financially exploitative relationships with partners who demanded constant material support in the name of love.
On the other hand, many Nigerian women came out to strongly challenge Erigga’s narrative. Some accused him of making a sweeping generalization that painted all women as greedy and materialistic. They argued that while some women may exhibit such behavior, many others are supportive, hardworking, and genuinely seek love—not money.
A female Twitter user wrote, “This is the problem with men like Erigga. You meet a few bad eggs and now every Nigerian woman is entitled and manipulative? Please, respect yourself.”
Others pointed out that the same society that criticizes women for demanding financial support in relationships also expects men to provide and protect. According to them, these cultural contradictions are at the heart of many relationship misunderstandings today.
Gender Roles and Changing Expectations
Erigga’s comments have reignited debates around gender roles in relationships. Traditionally in Nigeria, men are expected to provide for their partners, often footing bills for rent, groceries, clothing, and even extended family needs. In return, women are expected to offer emotional support, loyalty, and in some cases, domestic responsibilities.
However, with changing economic realities, increased female empowerment, and evolving gender dynamics, these expectations are being challenged by a younger generation seeking more balanced partnerships.
Erigga’s post appears to reflect the frustration of many men who feel burdened by traditional provider roles in a time when relationships are increasingly influenced by financial status.
Celebrity Voices Join the Conversation
In the wake of Erigga’s statement, other celebrities and influencers have chimed in with their perspectives. Some praised the rapper for using his platform to highlight real issues, while others advised more caution and sensitivity in public commentary.
Relationship therapist and author, Shade Agbo, urged for deeper reflection rather than blame.
“We need to stop pointing fingers and start having honest conversations. Both men and women contribute to the current state of relationships. The goal should be to build understanding, not to cast blame,” she said.
A Wake-Up Call or Just Another Rant?
Whether seen as harsh truth or sweeping generalization, Erigga’s comments have clearly struck a nerve. In a time when relationships are increasingly shaped by societal expectations, digital culture, and economic realities, his words have prompted a collective moment of introspection among young Nigerians.
As reactions continue to pour in, one thing remains clear: the conversation around what constitutes a healthy relationship in modern Nigeria is far from over. Erigga may have sparked controversy, but he has also opened up space for dialogue on love, values, and the evolving definitions of partnership in the 21st century.
