Media personality Isaac Fayose has once again stirred controversy online with a bold and rather unexpected opinion about Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo’s former husband and her current partner, Paul Okoye, popularly known as Paul O. In a social media post that has since gone viral, Fayose declared that Iyabo’s ex-husband is more handsome than her current man, while also taking the opportunity to declare Yoruba fathers, and by extension Yoruba men, as the finest in Nigeria.

The comment, posted on Fayose’s official Instagram account @isaacfayoseoriginal_, was brief but punchy: “Yoruba fathers are finer than Igbo fathers... @iyaboojofespris baby father is finer than @pauloo2104. Yoruba men are the best in Naija.” The post quickly gained traction, sparking a heated debate in the comment section and across Nigerian social media platforms.

Iyabo Ojo, one of Nollywood’s most prominent figures and a beloved actress with a strong fan base, has managed to keep her personal life relatively low-key, despite the constant public scrutiny. However, her romantic relationship with entertainment executive Paul Okoye became public knowledge in 2022, drawing attention due to their different ethnic backgrounds—Iyabo is Yoruba, while Paul O is Igbo. The couple has since been celebrated by fans for their compatibility, with many admiring their maturity, openness, and mutual support.

Isaac Fayose’s post, however, has shifted the conversation to the realm of physical appearance and ethnic stereotypes. His remark that Iyabo’s ex-husband is “finer” than Paul O wasn’t just a personal opinion—it opened the door to an ongoing and often light-hearted cultural rivalry between Nigeria’s major ethnic groups, especially the Yoruba and the Igbo. The debate on who is “finer,” “richer,” or “more romantic” between men of these tribes has been a recurring theme on Nigerian social media, often trending with hashtags and memes.

But while some took Fayose’s post as playful banter, others saw it as unnecessary and provocative. Critics questioned the relevance of comparing the looks of two men—especially when one is a current partner and the other a former spouse. “Why stir drama over someone’s relationship choices?” one user commented. “Iyabo Ojo is happy with Paul O, and that’s what matters. This isn’t a beauty contest.”

Others defended Fayose’s statement, calling it harmless opinion and even echoing his views. “Yoruba men fine pass, abeg. No competition,” another comment read, while some simply laughed it off as “Isaac being Isaac”—known for occasionally sharing offbeat, attention-grabbing takes on trending issues.

Paul Okoye, the man in question, is a respected figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry. As the CEO of Upfront and Personal, he has worked with some of the biggest names in the African music scene, managing and promoting artists like Wizkid, Davido, and Tiwa Savage. His relationship with Iyabo Ojo was seen by many as a power pairing, blending Nollywood with the business side of Afrobeats.

Iyabo’s ex-husband, on the other hand, has largely remained out of the spotlight, and little is publicly known about him. What is clear is that they share two children together and have maintained a respectful co-parenting relationship despite their separation. That alone, fans argue, is more important than a debate over who is more physically attractive.

Nonetheless, Fayose’s comments have drawn fresh attention to Iyabo’s romantic history, as social media users dug up old photos of her ex-husband in an attempt to evaluate Isaac’s claims. Side-by-side comparisons flooded Twitter and Instagram, with fans humorously voting on who they felt had the better looks. Some even called for a "handsomeness poll," turning the conversation into an unexpected viral trend.

The larger implication of Fayose’s post is the reinforcement of tribal sentiments in a country already grappling with ethnic divisions. While his tone may have been humorous, some analysts warned that such public statements can unintentionally deepen stereotypes or spark needless arguments between ethnic groups. “We must be careful how we joke about tribal differences,” one commentator noted. “Today it's about looks, tomorrow it might become something more sensitive.”

Iyabo Ojo herself has not responded to the post, remaining characteristically silent in the face of media chatter about her private life. Known for her focus on her career, children, and philanthropic endeavors, she has often avoided being dragged into social media controversies, unless necessary.

Isaac Fayose, brother to former Ekiti State governor Ayo Fayose, has carved out a space for himself online as a vocal commentator on both political and social issues. He frequently shares his thoughts on celebrity lifestyles, national issues, and relationships, often with a dose of humor or blunt honesty that keeps his followers engaged—even if occasionally ruffled.

Whether his latest post was meant as a genuine compliment to Yoruba men or simply a moment of light-hearted trolling, it has succeeded in getting people talking. The post has generated thousands of comments, with fans weighing in from all corners of the country and beyond. For now, the debate continues, blending humor, tribal pride, and celebrity gossip in a way only Nigerian social media can.

As the dust settles, one thing is clear: in the court of public opinion, beauty may be subjective, but stirring conversation is a talent Fayose has mastered. Whether or not Yoruba men are truly “the finest,” the buzz created proves once again how deeply Nigerians connect with celebrity culture—and how quickly a single Instagram post can set off a nationwide debate.