A certain Madam Venita Akpofure, known from the Big Brother Naija series, has made it her life’s mission to repeatedly tarnish the reputation of the esteemed Tiv people of Nigeria. In a recent appearance, she alleged, while lounging in the arms of a male housemate, that Tiv men offer their wives to guests as entertainment. 

While Akpofure is not the first to voice such claims, we certainly hope she will be the last to do so, at least publicly. As Tiv people, we have grown weary of such accusations. There's a saying that even a goat will retaliate when cornered. Over time, our genuine hospitality, which might appear unusual to other ethnic groups, has made us a target of a malicious commentary regarding our marital practices. Our kindness has been painted in negative shades fueled by prejudice. It is one thing for individuals to share thoughtless jokes privately, but entirely something else for a platform like Big Brother Nigeria “All Stars” edition to allow its reach to be used for promoting divisive sentiments.

The Tiv community, numbering around 7 million in Nigeria, a country with well over 300 ethnic groups, doesn't include our brothers in diaspora. We are educated, accomplished citizens who are fervent yet compassionate. It is uncommon to find a Tiv individual involved in organized crime, either locally or internationally. We are a kind, warm and hospitable people. Despite our "Live and Let Live" philosophy, we have been made the subject of ridicule. While we might not have addressed this issue at its inception, we are definitely prepared to confront it now.

It is perplexing how respected Tiv figures such as the Secretary General of the Federation, Chief George Akume, his wife, a member of the House of Representatives, Hon. Chief Regina Akume, and other dignitaries like Chief Iyorchia Ayu and Chief Barnabas Gemade to name a few can be associated with such baseless stereotypes. Yet, in her apparent bitterness, Akpofure seems willing to drag these distinguished individuals into her personal vendetta, possibly against her estranged spouse, a Tiv man. For indeed Venita’s ex-husband comes from the very distinguished Tarkaa lineage. Their union produced two daughters. 

We will withhold our thoughts regarding her conduct on international Television with two small children in dire need of moral guidance. But it would seem as though her mothering skills could be faulted. We never noticed the log in her eye till she tried to say we have a log in ours.

Multichoice and the Big Brother Naija brand on the other hand, are fast distinguishing themselves as a pain in the neck for all right thinking Nigerians. When they are not offering airtime for misogynistic comments such as those made by Seyi Awolowo, they are glad to allow their housemates spew filth against one of the biggest ethnic groups in Nigeria. For a brand that has remained controversial in the rather conservative nation called Nigeria, this strategy is at best unwise and at worst self-defeating. 

We demand the immediate expulsion of Venita Akpofure from the BBN house. We also expect a public apology from her on the same platform where she made those remarks. Apologies from MultiChoice, BBN, and their representatives are also sought. 

N120 million is being offered as prize money. Venita MUST NOT win it. We want her out. 

ENOUGH IS ENOUGH!!

Signed: Tiv Girl Magic