Miriam Ogbonna defends remarks on sex work, saying comments were meant to expose societal hypocrisy, not promote prostitution

Miriam Ogbonna, a Nigerian actress, has defended her recent controversial comments on sex work, stating that her remarks were intended to expose societal hypocrisy rather than promote prostitution.

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Speaking in an interview on Saturday, Ogbonna said her position reflects a difficult reality often ignored in public discourse, arguing that condemnation alone has not curbed the practice.

“As much as we frown at certain things, it won’t make them stop, and stopping also starts with us,” she said, noting that continued patronage sustains the trade despite widespread criticism.

Ogbonna explained that her comments were aimed at highlighting what she described as a contradiction in societal behaviour, where individuals publicly denounce prostitution while privately enabling it.

“My message was simply to call out hypocrisy,” she added.

The actress argued that as long as demand persists, those involved in the trade are operating within an existing system that society itself sustains.

Her remarks have sparked widespread debate online, with critics accusing her of endorsing immoral behaviour, while others viewed her comments as a candid reflection of reality.

Addressing the backlash, Ogbonna said she was not entirely surprised by the reaction, describing social media as a space where people often project idealised moral standards.

“Social media is filled with self-righteous people who do the worst things in the dark. Everyone claims to be a saint online,” she said.

Beyond the controversy, Ogbonna spoke about her career, revealing that she balances acting with scriptwriting, with a preference for the former.

She described solitude as essential to her creative process, noting that her most powerful ideas emerge when she is alone.

She also portrayed herself as outspoken and grounded in strong personal values, emphasising her commitment to addressing uncomfortable issues through her work.

“I’m working towards building a legacy that stands on uncomfortable truths and conversations society avoids; one that shows a woman can rise to the top through hard work, perseverance, and talent,” she said.

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The debate surrounding her comments continues to generate discussion, reflecting broader tensions in how society confronts sensitive social issues and the boundaries of public expression.