In what has now become one of the most talked-about moments in Nigerian celebrity circles this year, social media influencer Papaya Ex stirred major controversy after arriving at Priscilla Ojo’s wedding in an outfit that boldly displayed a photo of the groom on her chest. The jaw-dropping appearance didn’t just light up the wedding—it sent the internet into a frenzy, setting off a flurry of comments, speculations, and fiery debates.

Papaya Ex, known for her bold fashion statements and unapologetic personality, finally addressed the trending topic in an interview with content creator Egungun. With characteristic flair and confidence, she explained her choice and why she thought it was the “perfect spot” to feature the image of Priscilla Ojo’s husband. According to her, no matter where she had placed the photo, people would have still had something to say. “If I had put it on my back, they’d say I’m hiding it. If it was on my sleeve, they’d ask why I didn’t make it more visible. People will always talk,” she said.

She further stated that the chest placement wasn’t meant to cause drama or offend anyone. “People sexualize everything these days,” she said with a shrug. “I wore it with pride because it was art, fashion, and celebration all in one. That’s the way I saw it.” Her response, while clarifying her intent, did little to quell the heated reactions online, with critics and supporters continuing to lock horns in the comments section across social media platforms.

But it wasn’t just the placement of the photo that had tongues wagging. Papaya Ex also revealed during the interview that the stunning dress in question cost her a whopping 4.5 million naira to design and produce. Crafted by a luxury designer, the outfit featured intricate detailing, a body-hugging silhouette, and an avant-garde statement piece—the controversial photo itself. The influencer insisted that the high cost was worth every penny, describing the dress as a “masterpiece of fashion” that commanded the attention it got.

And if that figure wasn't enough to get people talking, she went further to mention that she currently resides in Dubai, where she pays an eye-watering 12 million naira monthly in rent. That claim immediately set off a storm in the comment sections. One Instagram user, @jokegold_xx, sarcastically commented, “I actually believe her 'cause my rent in Cape Town is actually 21M monthly, so wetin be 12M way she no fit pay in Dubai?” Another user, @prettee_dimples, simply wrote, “12 million monthlyyyyyy papayaaaaaa,” accompanied by strings of laughing emojis.

While some netizens mocked the rent claim, others questioned the logic behind her dress choice altogether. A user, @the___fatima.o, remarked, “Madam! You just want to trend and that’s alright,” clearly unimpressed with what they perceived as a publicity stunt. Another user, @esscentials.ng, said, “Why didn’t she put the couple together? Must you separate them? Is the wife invisible?” A sentiment shared by many who felt the gesture bordered on disrespect.

But amid the flood of criticism, there were also those who defended Papaya Ex, praising her for pushing the boundaries of fashion and expression. Her fans described her as fearless and a trendsetter, always knowing how to steal the spotlight without apology. “She understands what it means to own the room,” one user commented. “People will hate but they’ll still talk. And that’s how you win the game.”

Despite the mixed reception, there’s no denying that Papaya Ex knows how to dominate a headline. Known for her high-fashion wardrobe, luxury lifestyle, and unfiltered personality, she has carved out a niche for herself as one of the most recognizable influencers in Nigeria’s entertainment scene. This latest stunt, whether praised or criticized, only cemented her status as someone who refuses to play by the rules.

The controversy also raised questions about boundaries, social etiquette, and the role of influencers at events that aren’t theirs. Critics argued that wearing the groom’s face to someone else’s wedding—regardless of the intent—was a move that took attention away from the bride and the couple’s special day. “It’s not your wedding, sis,” one user wrote. “You don’t make yourself the centerpiece at someone else’s event.”

But Papaya Ex appeared unfazed. When asked if she had received any backlash from the couple themselves, she replied, “No, and I don’t expect any. People who know me understand my heart. I love love. I support love. That’s why I came through in my own way. It was celebration energy, not shade.”

As the interview clip continues to circulate online, it’s clear the drama is far from over. Some fans are demanding a response from Priscilla Ojo herself, while others have already moved on, treating the whole event as another classic moment in Nigerian entertainment history. Whether loved or loathed, Papaya Ex succeeded in doing what she does best—getting people to talk.

In a digital age where virality equals currency, Papaya Ex has once again proven she knows the formula. As fashion and celebrity culture continue to intertwine in Nigeria’s ever-buzzing entertainment scene, it’s moments like these that keep fans glued to their screens, waiting for the next unexpected twist.

For now, Papaya Ex remains the name on everyone’s lips. Her dress, her rent, and her boldness may be controversial, but one thing’s for sure—she’s not stepping out of the spotlight anytime soon.