Oluwatosin Enesi
Popular Nollywood actress, Laide Bakare, is currently under fire on social media following comments she made criticizing Nigerian ladies working in Arab countries, particularly those involved in “sagala”, a local term that often refers to domestic or care giving jobs many Nigerians take on in the Middle East.
In a now-viral video posted on her social media account, Bakare expressed disdain toward women who travel abroad for such jobs, suggesting it was a shameful path and questioning their dignity.
She implied that these women were tarnishing the image of Nigeria by engaging in work she considers beneath them.
Her remarks sparked swift and intense backlash from Nigerians at home and abroad, especially from those who have either worked in the Gulf region or have loved ones doing so.
Many accused the actress of being tone-deaf, elitist, and out of touch with the economic realities that force many women to seek greener pastures outside the country, even in tough conditions.
A Twitter user wrote: “Laide Bakare should count herself lucky. Not everyone has Nollywood or politicians as friends. Some of us are just trying to survive.”
Others pointed out that many women take up such roles out of necessity, not desire, and that instead of criticism, they deserve empathy and support. Some also reminded her that human dignity should not be tied to job titles.
As the criticism mounts, Laide Bakare has yet to issue a public apology or clarification.
Meanwhile, the incident has reignited conversations about classism, economic hardship, and the tough choices many Nigerian women are forced to make in search of better lives.
Our Reporter
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