Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has addressed the criticism surrounding his role as Odogwu Obiora in Omoni Oboli’s new movie, ‘Love In Every Word.’ The movie portrays Arukwe’s character as an affluent Igbo man who showers his partner, Chioma (played by Bambam), with lavish gifts and attention.

While the romantic portrayal has won the hearts of many viewers, especially women who praised the movie for depicting a caring and generous man, some male viewers have slammed the film for supposedly presenting Igbo men as "simps."

One critic on X, Himp2million, argued, “Anambra men are not simps. Your movie is liked only by ladies who have always had the illusion of an odogwu that’ll spend his last dime on them.”

Arukwe’s Defense

In response, Arukwe defended his character, clarifying that taking care of one’s partner and spending money on them does not make a man a simp but rather a responsible man.

He wrote:
“Taking care of your woman and spending money on her doesn’t make you a simp. It only makes you a responsible man. How else do you show love to your partner if you can’t take care of their needs from the abundance of your wealth?”

This isn’t the first time Arukwe has been criticized for his acting. In 2023, he was accused of exaggerating his Igbo accent in Funke Akindele’s blockbuster, ‘A Tribe Called Judah.’

Opinion: Is This Backlash Really Justified?

Arukwe’s statement raises an interesting point about how cultural expectations and gender roles are often misunderstood or even twisted to fit societal biases. His role in Love In Every Word might not align with everyone’s ideal image of masculinity, but it does challenge the narrative that spending on a partner is a weakness.

One could argue that movies are meant to explore different personalities and stories, not define a community’s identity. The idea of “simping” often feels like a misguided attempt to shame men for expressing love and generosity. If anything, Arukwe’s character’s generosity reflects his emotional investment and dedication, not weakness.

Wouldn’t the world be a much better place if more men were as responsible and caring as Odogwu Obiora? And perhaps, the real question we should be asking is: When did kindness and generosity become something to criticize?

What’s your take on Uzor Arukwe’s response? Do you agree with his stance or think there’s more to the criticism? 💭💬