Nigerian-born UFC star Israel Adesanya has sparked controversy after making negative comments about women in Lagos, News About Nigeria reports.
Adesanya, who arrived in Lagos last Wednesday to a warm reception following his recent defeat to South Africa’s Dricus Du Plessis at UFC 305, caused an uproar when he took to social media to claim that most women in Lagos are prostitutes, commonly referred to as “runs girls.”
In a video shared on his official X handle on Monday, Adesanya expressed his frustration, suggesting that Lagos women are overly proud and that their lavish lifestyles are funded by proceeds from prostitution.
Speaking in Yoruba, he remarked, “Lagos women like to feel themselves and are proud. Majority of you are runs girls. I know the meaning of runs girls now. Kobo kobo, ashewo. You want to show off. Keep posing and showing off. Nonsense. Just be nice, be friendly, say hi.”
His comments have triggered widespread backlash, with many accusing him of lashing out because he was allegedly ignored by a woman.
Critics have taken to social media to express their disapproval, with some suggesting that Adesanya’s remarks were born out of frustration rather than genuine observation.
https://twitter.com/adaezennaji_/status/1827972086721040400
Despite the controversy, Adesanya was seen enjoying Lagos nightlife on Friday night, hitting a popular club on Lagos Island.
The UFC star shared snippets of his outing on his Instagram stories, which drew attention from fans and celebrities alike.
Adesanya’s visit to the club followed a busy week in Nigeria, during which he returned to his hometown of Esa-Oke in Osun State.
There, he was warmly welcomed by the community and honoured by the traditional ruler, the Owa-Omiran of Esa-Oke, Oba Adeyemi Adediran.
