Nigerian actor Jim Iyke is no stranger to controversy, but his latest remarks may be among his most divisive yet.
In a recent interview, the 48-year-old Nollywood star took aim at modern feminism, describing the movement as “a crime” and “a kind of assault” on traditional gender roles.
“I consider it a crime, a kind of assault,” Iyke said during the sit-down conversation. “The perpetrators… launched a clever campaign to push sales. Who were their chief readers? Women. So they devised an ideology that allowed women to challenge the status quo and compete with men in the same space.” His comments, clipped and circulated widely online, quickly set social media alight.
While Iyke acknowledged the historical significance of early feminist movements, crediting them for confronting patriarchy and addressing systemic gender imbalances…he argued that the cause has since lost its way.
“They decided this whole ideology of ‘we do not need a man, anything a man can do we can do better’… escalated and blew out of proportion,” he said. “Now it’s a lifestyle. A norm.”
Iyke went on to claim that what began as a publishing tactic by a women’s magazine evolved into a cultural shift that, in his view, encourages women to reject men entirely. The actor suggested that instead of pushing for balance, modern feminism fosters division and rivalry between genders.
Iyke didn’t stop there. He took issue with what he called the “two-faced” nature of feminist discourse, arguing that the movement often lacks the very fairness it claims to promote.
“The double standard is what makes me question the ideology,” he said. “Men and women have distinct roles, and when they work together in harmony, that’s when true balance is achieved. That is what they are yet to understand.”
The remarks have sparked sharp reactions, particularly on social media, where opinion remains deeply split. Some praised Iyke for “speaking his truth” and challenging what they see as the excesses of radical feminism. Others, however, accused him of ignorance, misrepresentation, and peddling outdated gender narratives.
One user wrote: “Jim Iyke clearly doesn’t understand feminism. It’s not a war against men, it’s a fight for equality.”
Another countered: “He said what many are too afraid to admit. The conversation is overdue.”
For Jim Iyke, controversy is almost second nature. Known for his fiery roles on screen and no-holds-barred interviews off it, the actor has built a reputation as one of Nollywood’s most outspoken figures. Whether clashing with fellow celebrities or stirring debate online, Iyke has rarely shied away from the limelight.
But in a time when discussions around gender, equity, and social values are more global and nuanced than ever, his latest comments have struck a particularly sensitive chord.
As of now, the actor has not issued a follow-up statement.
