Nollywood actor Uzor Arukwe has responded to criticism over his portrayal of Odogwu Obiora, a wealthy Igbo man, in Omoni Oboli’s latest movie, Love In Every Word. Arukwe’s character, who lavishly spends on his partner Chioma (played by Bambam), has sparked mixed reactions, with some viewers accusing the film of portraying Igbo men as “simps.”
While the movie has been praised by many, particularly women, for depicting an ideal partner who goes above and beyond for his loved one, some male viewers have criticized it for setting unrealistic expectations of men in relationships.
An X user, @Himp2million, commented, “Anambra men are not simps. Your movie is liked only by ladies who have always had the illusion of an odogwu that’ll spend his last dime on them.”
In response, Arukwe defended his role, stating that taking care of one’s partner and spending money on them does not make a man a simp but rather a responsible partner.
He wrote:
“Taking care of your woman and spending money on her doesn’t make you a simp. It only makes you a responsible man. How else do you show love to your partner if you can’t take care of their needs from the abundance of your wealth?”
This is not the first time Arukwe has faced backlash for his roles. In 2023, he was criticized for allegedly exaggerating his Igbo accent in Funke Akindele’s blockbuster movie, A Tribe Called Judah. Despite the criticism, Arukwe has continued to deliver compelling performances, sparking conversations about cultural representation and relationship dynamics in Nollywood.
Love In Every Word has ignited a broader debate about gender roles and expectations in relationships, with many applauding the film for its romantic portrayal while others question its realism. As the conversation continues, Arukwe’s response highlights the importance of understanding and interpreting artistic roles within the context of storytelling.
