Viral Ojude Oba attendee, Oluwatoyin Olushile, has addressed the backlash that followed a video of her holding what many viewers assumed was a cigar during the cultural celebration
Olushile’s appearance at the annual festival drew widespread attention online, with many comparing her striking pose to that of popular Ojude Oba sensation Faruq Oreagba, whose cigar smoking image became iconic during the previous edition of the event.
While her confident appearance earned praise from some social media users, others criticized what they perceived as smoking, citing cultural expectations and gender norms.
Reacting to the criticism during an interview, Olushile clarified that she is not a smoker and has never smoked in her life.
According to her, the item she was holding was an electric cigar that produces vapor and is completely odorless.
Introducing herself, she said:
“My name is Oluwatoyin Olushile. I’m from New York City, and I work as a manager in the post office in New York City. I’ve never smoked in my life. What I held that day was an electric cigar, and what was inside was vapor, no smell or nothing.”
The New York-based woman further explained that the electric cigar was simply a fashion accessory and not a tobacco product. She revealed that the item was created by a friend in the United States and was used to complement her outfit at the event.
She added:
“That electric cigar was made in the U.S. by my friend. If people want it, contact me and I will get it for you.”
Her response comes amid ongoing conversations on social media about self expression, tradition, and public perception at high profile cultural events such as the Ojude Oba festival.
By Musekir Faisat Omolara
