Podcaster Maliya, known for her controversial stance on rejecting small monetary gifts from men, has found herself at the center of a heated debate after joining OnlyFans. This development, coming just a year after her widely circulated comments, has ignited discussions about financial pressures, evolving social norms, and the complex dynamics of social media influencing in Nigeria.
Last year, Maliya made headlines during an episode of the “Rants Bants and Confessions Podcast,” where she appeared alongside Timini’s ex-girlfriend Lydia and influencer Caramel Plugg. In a moment that would come to define her public persona, Maliya and Lydia adamantly stated that they wouldn’t thank a man for giving them small amounts like ₦5,000 or ₦10,000.
Their comments sparked immediate controversy, with Maliya asserting, “It’s very wrong for a guy to send a lady a mere ₦5k or ₦10k because she is not a beggar.” This stance was in stark contrast to Caramel Plugg’s more moderate view that such amounts could indeed help someone in need.
Now, barely a year later, internet sleuths have uncovered that Maliya has opened a “VIP access fans” account on OnlyFans, a platform known for its adult content. On this account, she’s reportedly selling 18+ photos for ₦25,000 per month.
This dramatic shift from rejecting ₦10,000 gifts to selling content for ₦25,000 has not gone unnoticed by social media users, many of whom have been quick to point out the apparent irony.
The revelation of Maliya’s OnlyFans account has elicited a wide range of reactions from the Nigerian online community. Some view it as a justified comeuppance, while others see it as a sad reflection of economic pressures facing young Nigerians.
User @marsh_melow_ highlighted the irony, commenting: “25k for a month. 806 for one day. 😂😂😂 Meanwhile then want dash you 10k for doing nothing you say you no want! 😂😂”
Others, like @mamaariella, took a more empathetic stance, reflecting on broader societal issues: “See what hardship has reduced beautiful ladies in Nigeria to? Instead of you to use your platform to discuss empowerment to women, how you can be a boss lady, make your own money so you don’t have to be with a man because of what you think he has to offer but because you ‘choose’ to be with him.
Maliya’s journey from outspoken podcaster to OnlyFans content creator highlights the often precarious nature of social media influencing. While many aspire to build careers on platforms like Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube, the reality of monetizing one’s online presence can be challenging.
Maliya’s story has also reignited discussions about gender dynamics in Nigerian society. Some see her initial comments and subsequent career move as reflective of broader issues surrounding women’s financial independence and societal expectations.
Maliya’s entry into OnlyFans is part of a growing trend in Nigeria, where the platform has gained popularity among young people looking for alternative income streams. This trend has been accelerated by economic challenges and the global COVID-19 pandemic, which has pushed many to explore online revenue options.
However, the platform’s association with adult content has made it a contentious topic in Nigeria’s conservative society. Social commentator Yemi Adebowale noted: “The rise of OnlyFans in Nigeria represents a clash between traditional values and modern economic realities. It’s forcing us to have uncomfortable conversations about sexuality, privacy, and the lengths people will go to for financial stability.”
Maliya’s story also serves as a cautionary tale about the permanence of social media statements. Her previous comments, widely circulated and remembered, have come back to haunt her in light of her recent career move.
Beyond the individual story of Maliya, this incident has sparked broader discussions about the challenges facing young Nigerians in today’s economy. Many see her journey as symptomatic of the limited options available to youth in a challenging job market.
As the dust settles on this controversy, many are left wondering about the future of influencer culture in Nigeria. Will Maliya’s story serve as a cautionary tale, or will it normalize the use of platforms like OnlyFans among Nigerian influencers?
Media analyst Bola Adeosun speculated: “This incident could mark a turning point in how we view influencers and social media personalities. It may lead to more transparency about income sources and a reevaluation of the ‘aspirational’ lifestyles often portrayed on social media.”
Maliya’s journey from rejecting small gifts to embracing OnlyFans is more than just an individual story of contradiction. It’s a mirror reflecting the complex realities of life in the digital age, especially for young Nigerians navigating a challenging economic landscape.
As social media continues to evolve and new platforms emerge, stories like Maliya’s will likely become more common. They force us to confront uncomfortable truths about the economics of influence, the pressure to maintain certain images online, and the lengths to which people will go to achieve financial stability.
In the end, Maliya’s story serves as a potent reminder of the old adage: “Never say never.” In the fast-paced world of social media and influencer culture, today’s bold statement can easily become tomorrow’s ironic twist of fate. As Nigeria continues to grapple with these issues, one thing is certain: the conversation around social media, economics, and personal choices is far from over.
