Popular Yoruba actress Biola Adebayo has sparked widespread discussion after openly expressing her frustration with the financial burden of continuous party invitations and expensive Aso Ebi culture. The Nollywood star revealed she has already spent millions of naira on fabrics alone this year.
The Financial Strain of Celebratory Culture
In a viral video that has captured national attention, Biola Adebayo disclosed that she has spent over N2 million on Aso Ebi fabrics throughout 2025. The actress expressed particular concern about the approaching end of the year, noting that she has at least eight more social events to attend before December concludes.
The emotional appeal made by the actress highlighted how the cheapest Aso Ebi fabric she encountered cost above N100,000. Beyond the fabric expenses, Adebayo detailed additional financial commitments including professional makeup services, transportation costs for fueling her car, and the cultural expectation to 'spray money' (make it rain) on celebrants during parties.
A Heartfelt Public Appeal
"I can't keep buying fabrics, doing makeup, fueling my car and still spray money, I can't afford it," the actress stated emphatically in her viral video. She made a direct appeal to potential party hosts, requesting that Aso Ebi participation not be made compulsory for her attendance.
In a follow-up caption, Adebayo elaborated further: "Please nobody should take this personally with me, I cannot afford it please! If you give me, I'll gladly make my Iro and Buba to come honor you. I have enough responsibilities than spending so much on clothes that I can hardly wear twice... common! Party has never been a form of relaxation for me, if I'm coming to your party, it's just because I want to honor you and I can honorably do that without spending so much."
Understanding Aso Ebi Tradition
Aso Ebi represents a significant cultural practice among the Yoruba people, serving as a uniform dressing code that symbolizes cooperation, camaraderie, and solidarity during social gatherings. While traditionally meant to foster unity, the practice has evolved into a substantial financial consideration for regular party attendees.
The actress's revelation has ignited broader conversations about the sustainability of such cultural practices in current economic conditions, with many Nigerians relating to her financial concerns.
Public Reactions and Support
Social media responses to Biola Adebayo's candid confession have been largely supportive, with many applauding her honesty while sharing their own experiences:
Instagram user @ask.dehrine commented: "People will always have something to celebrate by Gods grace... Just attend the ones you can and do transfer for the ones you can't... Kojubelo."
Another user @megan_the_lary offered practical advice: "Y'all do above ur means, it is very very okay to say 'I can't afford it at the moment', I would attend your occasion and wear what I have."
User @maryvenia shared a relatable experience: "Someone is currently keeping malice with me cause I told her I couldn't afford to be part of her train. There's a lot I need to do, rent, school fees, wants, needs, business etc me wey Dey struggle."
Meanwhile, @leonzora.naturals took a firm stance: "I stopped this rubbish in 2014. I wear what I have no matter who you are, i don't buy. My cousin got married in 2021, I no buy. I'd rather give you money. I just can't be bothered."
The overwhelming response indicates that Biola Adebayo's lamentation resonates with many Nigerians who face similar pressures from social obligations and cultural expectations.
