Former Big Brother Naija contestant Pere Egbi has advised young single women in Nigeria against living alone, urging them to share their homes with friends or family members for companionship and security. This statement has sparked discussion following the recent death of singer Ifunanya Nwangene.
Egbi, a public figure known from the Nigerian reality TV series, posted his views on X. He wrote, “Personal advice to young women living in Nigeria who are single, don’t live alone by yourself. Have someone stay with you always. A friend, family member/s. It’s never a cool thing to live alone as a woman.” When a fan questioned if this was linked to Nwangene’s passing, Egbi replied, “everything,” implying the incident validated his point. He later clarified that living alone is generally “not good” irrespective of gender.
Nwangene, a female singer, died from a snake bite at her Abuja residence earlier this month. Such incidents highlight risks for individuals in isolation, where delayed assistance can prove fatal. While snake bites occur in some Nigerian regions, the case underscores vulnerabilities in emergency response for solo dwellers.
Egbi’s advice reflects traditional Nigerian communal values, where extended families often cohabit. However, urbanization and economic factors have led many young people, including women, to pursue independent living for education or employment. This shift raises safety concerns, as women in Nigeria frequently report fears of crime or accidents when living alone. Advocacy groups note that solitary living can increase exposure to risks like burglary or assault, though specific national statistics are limited.
By recommending shared accommodation, Egbi emphasizes precaution. Yet, the suggestion also intersects with debates on women’s autonomy. Some interpret it as limiting personal freedom, arguing that efforts should focus on improving security infrastructure, such as better lighting, policing, and emergency services, rather than restricting housing choices.
The dialogue around Egbi’s comments reveals broader societal tensions in Nigeria between cultural norms and modern independence. As more women seek solo residences in cities, calls grow for safer housing policies and community support systems. Stakeholders, including non-governmental organizations, continue promoting initiatives like neighborhood watches and mobile alert apps to enhance personal security.
This incident, coupled with Egbi’s platform, amplifies ongoing conversations about safety for single women. It may influence public discourse and policy reviews aimed at protecting all citizens, balancing individual rights with communal well-being in Nigeria’s evolving urban landscape. The case of Ifunanya Nwangene remains a somber example of the potential consequences of isolation.
