Diekola Afolayan, son of the Nollywood icon Kunle Afolayan, has been in the eye of an online storm following a viral video where the young fashion model and possible actor was flaunting a handbag.
Presently trying to make a cut for himself in the competitive industry, he strikingly posed for the camera, with one of the clips showing his behind, and well-that set off an Internet frenzy of mixed reactions.
While some people praised his bold fashion statement, others were quick to judge and question his lifestyle and choices. A growing tide of speculation by netizens was that Diekola’s fashion-forward persona might be the reason his father has kept him away from movie projects, unlike his sister, who has been more prominently involved in Kunle’s productions. This is similar to an earlier controversy Kunle had gone through when a dance video featuring himself and his daughter attracted similar attention.
Reactions online have been anything but mild, as users express concerns on gender norms and parental expectations. Comments like “God abeg no barb my son this style” and “Please God, I want a MALE son and a FEMALE daughter” keep the conversation going, with many questioning where the line is drawn between self-expression and tradition.