Toyin Abraham Criticized for Embracing Yoruba Over Edo Heritage, Fires Back at Critic
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has come under fire for choosing to promote her movies in Yoruba rather than in her native Edo language.
The backlash came after Toyin took to X (formerly Twitter) to announce her latest film, Malaika, and her upcoming project, Iyalode, in Yoruba language, aligning with Yoruba Day celebrations.
She wrote:
“IYALODE nbo ninu osu kefa, oojo kefa odun ti awa ninu e yi. Mo ni kin tun ranyin leti ni o Aese Modupe Malaika si wa Lori circuits.tv lowo lowo bayi, ejo eba mi wo, mi o nise mi o yato si ere ori itage.”
In English, she translated:
“IYALODE is coming in the sixth month, on the sixth day of this year. I just wanted to remind you all. Also, thank you so much! Malaika is currently available on Circuits.tv. Please check it out for me. Acting is my only job; I do nothing else besides stage performance.”
Oriretan Honour Calls Out Toyin for "Abandoning" Her Edo Roots
A social media user, Oriretan Honour, was displeased with Toyin’s choice, arguing that she was neglecting her Edo heritage despite being born to Edo parents.
He wrote:
"Toyin, it’s unwise claiming Yoruba that you're originally not instead of Edo. More unwise only promoting Yoruba culture leaving Edo’s. Your mum & dad are Edos but sad nobody knows this about you. Marrying Yoruba isn't enough reason. You’ve 48hrs to dump Yorubawood & start promoting EdoWood. Be wise.”
Toyin Abraham Claps Back in Yoruba
In response, Toyin dismissed his criticism with a sharp Yoruba proverb, implying that his argument was absurd. However, she also prayed for peace for him.
She replied:
"Ori e ti buru bi eegun ti nle weere, amo Adura mi ni wipe ki Eledumare fun e alaafia.”
In English, she translated:
“Your head is as bad as a masquerade chasing a mad person, but my prayer is that God grants you peace.”
A Debate on Identity and Cultural Representation
Toyin Abraham’s career and personal life have been heavily influenced by Yoruba culture. Although she hails from Edo State, she has been deeply immersed in Yoruba Nollywood, married a Yoruba man, and speaks the language fluently.
Her critics argue that she should also uplift the Edo film industry (EdoWood), ensuring that her native culture is represented. However, others believe culture is fluid, and a person has the right to embrace the culture that resonates most with them.
This raises a bigger question: Should celebrities feel obligated to promote their ethnic origins, or should they be free to identify with any culture they choose?
