Big Brother Naija Season 11 housemates Aikou and Flora now face an uncertain path to the ₦160 million grand prize after host Ebuka Obi-Uchendu introduced a new twist during Sunday’s live eviction show.

Also read: Sultex evicted from BBNaija Season 11 show

The development gives viewers the power to decide whether Aikou, Flora or both housemates should regain their eligibility to compete for the season’s ultimate prize.

Aikou and Flora had earlier become the first Gambits of the season after viewers voted them into the special positions.

Under the original Gambit arrangement, both housemates were guaranteed places in the Big Brother Naija house until the grand finale but had to sacrifice their eligibility for the ₦160 million prize.

That arrangement changed on Sunday when Ebuka announced “Operation Release the Gambit”, giving viewers a fresh say in the fate of the two housemates.

“Big Brother has one more twist for you tonight. Operation Release the Gambit begins immediately after the live show. The polls will open, and you will decide whether to release one or both of the Gambits, giving them the opportunity to play for the prize. The power is in your hands,” Ebuka announced.

Viewers are being asked to choose between three options: releasing Aikou, releasing Flora or releasing both housemates.

The twist means the Gambits could potentially move from having guaranteed longevity in the house to competing directly for the season’s biggest reward.

Flora secured the female Gambit position after receiving 29.38 per cent of the votes, while Aikou emerged as the male Gambit with 9.10 per cent.

Ricky polled 7.30 per cent, while Abi received 6.07 per cent in the voting process that determined the original Gambit positions.

The Gambit concept created a striking trade-off for the housemates. Aikou and Flora secured protection from early eviction and a place at the finale, but that security initially came at the cost of their opportunity to win the grand prize.

With Operation Release the Gambit, that bargain is now under review.

The outcome will depend entirely on viewers, who have been handed the power to determine whether one or both housemates can return to the ₦160 million race.

Also read: Sultex evicted from BBNaija Season 11 show

The development adds another layer of uncertainty to an already unpredictable BBNaija season, with Aikou and Flora now waiting to discover whether viewers will give them a shot at the ultimate prize.