“If You’re Not Richer Than Erica, Sit Down” — Kiddwaya Slams Trolls as Erica Faces Igbo Fluency Backlash
Reality TV star Kiddwaya has come to the defense of his former Big Brother Naija housemate and ex-girlfriend, Erica Nlewedim, after she became the target of heavy online criticism for her perceived inability to speak fluent Igbo.
According to a NewsVista reporter, the controversy began when a video surfaced online showing Erica attempting to speak her native language. The clip quickly gained traction, with many social media users accusing her of being disconnected from her roots. Some went as far as calling her a disgrace to the Igbo community.
Not one to stay silent, Erica took to X (formerly known as Twitter) to express her dismay over the harsh reactions — particularly those coming from her fellow Igbo people.
“Look at my Igbo people in the comments showing how much they hate their own! Continue, but please don’t complain when others don’t show you love… You can’t be so openly divided against your own people and expect trust from outsiders!” she tweeted.
Amid the backlash, Kiddwaya offered his support with a bold clapback that quickly made waves online:
“If you are not making more money than Erica, then the joke is on you,” he tweeted, silencing critics with a dose of reality.
In response, Erica thanked him and took another swing at her critics, stating,
“Keep ignoring your real-life problems to drag someone over language. It says more about you.”
Erica, who rose to fame during the 2020 BBNaija ‘Lockdown’ season, has previously opened up about her limited fluency in Igbo, explaining that she was raised in an environment where the language wasn’t commonly spoken.
While some continue to judge her, many fans and public figures have spoken out in her favor, arguing that speaking a native dialect isn’t the sole measure of cultural identity.
The incident has reignited important conversations about language shaming, cultural expectations, and the need for unity within ethnic communities. As the debate continues, one thing is clear — Erica isn’t backing down, and neither are her supporters.