Nollywood star Kate Henshaw has stirred up social media with her bold comments on a controversial topic: young women choosing to date “Yahoo boys,” a Nigerian term for internet fraudsters. Her blunt reaction to a viral video of a young woman declaring her preference for dating a Yahoo boy over a working-class man has sparked mixed reactions online.
It all started when Henshaw commented on the video, warning,
In her view, Henshaw suggested that women who associate with fraudsters may endanger themselves by getting involved with men who live risky lifestyles.Na so dem go take pieces you for ritual…Yeye mindset”—which loosely translates to “They’ll use you for rituals…such a foolish mindset.”
Na so dem go take pieces you for ritual…🙄🙄😫
— Kate Amaka Henshaw (@HenshawKate) October 31, 2024
Yeye mindset https://t.co/hKgkDjE0RP
As expected, Henshaw’s opinion caused a firestorm, with many people supporting her for calling out a dangerous mindset. However, others thought she went too far, accusing her of being insensitive and implying that these women deserved harm. One social media user replied,
This is so wrong to say. How is murder justifiable?”
In response, Henshaw doubled down on her point. She argued that the young woman’s choice to pursue a Yahoo boy showed a lack of self-respect and a “green light” for risky behavior. To Henshaw, dating fraudsters isn’t just a choice; it’s a red flag that could lead to trouble.
That's the value she placed on herself with her words and actions.
— Kate Amaka Henshaw (@HenshawKate) October 31, 2024
That's how she reduced herself to be used by all and sundry.
That's the green light she has put on but that's OK with you .
Still, some felt Henshaw missed an opportunity to guide and uplift young women with her influence. A critic commented, “This could have been an impactful moment for you to lead younger girls to be better.” Unfazed, Henshaw replied, pointing out that the young woman had other options: “Can she not see her mates and how they do not choose this mindset of hers? Is she the only one?”
This heated exchange has left social media divided, with some fans supporting Henshaw’s bold stance and others urging her to choose more careful language when addressing sensitive issues. As the debate continues, Henshaw’s comments highlight the importance of safe, respectful relationships in Nigerian society, but also spark questions about how celebrities should use their platform to inspire positive choices among youth.
