Popular Nigerian comedian and actor, Woli Arole, has ignited a wave of controversy following a recent Instagram post where he criticized women who opt for surrogacy despite having the physical ability to carry a pregnancy themselves.
In his post shared on Monday, Arole expressed strong disapproval of women choosing surrogacy for non-medical reasons. He described such decisions as a product of âwokenessâ and modern-day ideologies that, in his view, stray from what he believes to be Godâs intended purpose for women.
âIt is a blessing for a woman to carry her baby in her womb,â he wrote. âThatâs how God wants it. Donât let wokeness derail you.â
While Arole acknowledged the use of alternative reproductive methods such as surrogacy and IVF in medically necessary situations, he condemned the growing trend of women opting for surrogacy as a lifestyle choice. He firmly rejected the notion of personal autonomy being the basis for such a decision.
âYou canât say, âmy body, my decision. I donât feel like carrying a child. I want surrogacy.â No! Your body is Godâs temple!â he emphasized.
Further stressing his views, the comedian added, âThereâs a reason God gave you a womb. Surrogacy is not something you just choose.â
His remarks have since sparked widespread debate online, drawing mixed reactions. While some followers praised his faith-driven perspective, others criticized his comments as dismissive of womenâs rights and tone-deaf to the complexities surrounding reproductive choices in todayâs society.
The incident has added fuel to the ongoing dialogue around bodily autonomy, faith, and evolving definitions of family in modern Nigeria.