Nollywood actor James Olanrewaju, known as Baba Ijesha, is facing backlash after the Aso Ebi prices for his son's naming ceremony sparked online criticism.
Aso Ebi is a well-known Nigerian tradition, especially among the Yoruba. It involves family members, friends, or guests wearing the same fabric and colour to show support for the host. While everyone wears the same material, they can sew it into different styles, leading to various designs.
The issue started when an invitation was shared, announcing the naming ceremony of the actor's newborn son with his wife, celebrity stylist Abiodun Tokunbo, also called Luminee. This event is set for 27 August.
Baba Ijesha and Luminee confirmed their relationship publicly in June when they announced the birth of their first child together.
The invitation flyer, which Luminee shared on social media, stated that guests who want to join the Aso Ebi would pay ₦250,000 for the men’s package and ₦350,000 for the women’s package.
Although the post is now deleted, it went viral, attracting mixed reactions. Many social media users criticized the prices as too high, given Nigeria's economic situation. Others argued buying Aso Ebi is optional and the couple can celebrate their child however they wish.
Before revealing who the baby's father is, Luminee, the CEO of Luminee Couture, shared maternity photos and announced she was having a baby boy.
Before this announcement, Ms Tokunbo was known as a single mother and a celebrity fashion designer for popular Yoruba actresses, including Toyin Abraham. Neither she nor Baba Ijesha has said when their relationship started or when they got married.
Days later, the couple announced their son's arrival, receiving both congratulations from colleagues and criticism from the public.
Luminee's pregnancy attracted a lot of attention as it happened just five months after Baba Ijesha was released from prison.
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