LAGOS, Nigeria(VOICE OF NAIJA)- Actress Biola Bayo has sparked conversation online after publicly apologising to friends and family for declining to buy Aso Ebi for several upcoming Owambe parties, citing rising financial pressure and emotional exhaustion.
In a candid Instagram video, the actress revealed that she has been invited to eight events before the year ends, estimating her potential Aso Ebi expenses at nearly ₦2 million.
She admitted the costs had become overwhelming, saying she was “mentally, emotionally, and financially down.”
“Between now and the end of the year, I have about eight Owambe. The cost of Aso Ebi should be approximately two million. Dear friends and family, I am sorry, I can’t afford it,” she said.
Bayo broke down the hidden costs behind attending social functions, from sewing the outfits to matching accessories, makeup, fueling her car, and spraying money. According to her, even generosity comes at a price.
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“On ₦100,000 that I spray, I’m probably paying ₦25,000 or ₦30,000 for it. It’s expensive! Sometimes I even have to cancel jobs to show up,” she said.
The actress appealed to loved ones not to take her decision personally, stressing that Aso Ebi shouldn’t determine the value of relationships.
“If you tell me it’s strictly by Aso Ebi, that means you’re saying I shouldn’t come if I don’t have it. But if you don’t mind, I’ll show up in what I have,” Biola added.
In her caption, Biola further clarified that her decision was born out of financial responsibility, not disregard for her beloved friend’s celebrations.
“Please, nobody should take this personally. I cannot afford it. I have enough responsibilities than spending so much on clothes I can hardly wear twice,” she wrote, adding that parties have never been her form of relaxation.
Biola Bayo’s heartfelt confession has resonated with many Nigerians online who relate to the rising cost of social obligations.
