Social media influencer and lifestyle entrepreneur, Papaya Ex, has responded to the heated backlash surrounding her outfit choice at Priscilla Ojo’s wedding. The event, which attracted several high-profile guests, saw Papaya in a form-fitting, glittery gown that drew both admiration and criticism from fans and social media users alike. Critics accused the influencer of dressing “inappropriately” for a traditional celebration, claiming the ensemble was “too revealing” for the cultural context.
However, the digital star took to her Snapchat and Instagram stories to express disappointment over what she termed as Nigeria’s tendency to hypersexualize everything. “Nigerians s£xualize everything. I felt very sorry. I even had to tell someone it’s just a dress. It’s fashion,” she lamented. Her statement sparked a broader conversation on fashion freedom, modernity, and double standards in cultural attire expectations.
Defending Her Fashion Choice Amidst Cultural Expectations
Papaya Ex, whose real name is Abike Arab Money, emphasized that her outfit was not intended to offend or stir controversy. She explained that it was custom-made for elegance, in alignment with the event’s opulent theme. “It was a designer piece, made to fit my style and confidence. It wasn’t meant to steal the spotlight or disrespect the occasion,” she stated.
The influencer also noted that many attendees wore similarly glamorous attire, yet she was disproportionately targeted. She attributed the scrutiny to her public persona and the preconceived judgments often attached to her. “They don’t see the dress. They see me and their bias,” she said. This statement resonated with many fans who rallied in support of her individuality and expression.
Unveiling the Eye-Watering Price Tag of the Dress
In the midst of the backlash, Papaya Ex stunned followers by revealing the estimated cost of her much-talked-about dress. The gown, according to her, was valued at over ₦2.6 million (approximately $2,000), excluding the accessories and professional styling. “This wasn’t just a dress. It was art, creativity, luxury, and confidence all in one,” she said.
She highlighted the meticulous craftsmanship involved, including Swarovski embellishments, hand-woven meshwork, and weeks of designer fittings. “The dress was tailored to perfection. Every bead, every stitch was intentional. People criticize without knowing the effort and expense that goes into real fashion,” Papaya Ex added.
Living Lavishly: Monthly Rent in Downtown Dubai
Beyond the dress, Papaya Ex gave followers another peek into her luxurious lifestyle, disclosing that she currently pays $6,500 monthly in rent for her apartment in Downtown Dubai — a figure that left many Nigerians stunned. “It’s not bragging. It’s transparency. I want people to understand the kind of investments influencers make to maintain their image,” she remarked.
She elaborated that her Dubai residence offers panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa and is situated in a prime real estate zone known for its upscale residents. Papaya Ex emphasized that her lifestyle is funded through multiple streams of income, including brand endorsements, social media monetization, and business ventures.
Public Reactions: Divided Opinions and Gendered Criticism
Public reactions to Papaya Ex’s revelations remain sharply divided. While many applauded her honesty and resilience in the face of online criticism, others accused her of promoting materialism and vanity. Gendered double standards also came under the spotlight, as netizens noted that male influencers rarely face the same scrutiny for their fashion or financial choices.
Some commentators, including fellow influencers, called for a more nuanced understanding of personal branding and fashion in a digital age. “If a man wore a luxury suit, nobody would question the price or intent. But with women, everything is sexualized or seen as attention-seeking,” one user tweeted, echoing Papaya’s earlier statement.
A Call for Cultural Tolerance and Evolving Fashion Norms
In closing, Papaya Ex called for greater tolerance and acceptance of evolving fashion trends within African societies. She urged Nigerians to broaden their views on self-expression and not judge individuals based on outdated standards. “It’s 2025. Let people express themselves without assigning shame or scandal. Our culture is beautiful, but it should evolve with us,” she said.
The influencer’s remarks have reignited conversations around fashion policing, body autonomy, and the role of influencers in reshaping cultural narratives. As Papaya Ex continues to dominate digital spaces with bold statements and style, one thing is clear: she’s unapologetically carving her path, and she’s inviting others to do the same — without shame or fear.
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