Meghan Markle's Skimpy Clothing Choices Spark Controversy in Nigeria, Drawing Criticism from First Lady
Meghan Markle has come under fire for her controversial fashion choices during her recent mini-tour of Nigeria with Prince Harry. The couple, who pledged to return to the African nation multiple times, may face a less enthusiastic welcome from Nigeria's first lady, Senator Oluremi "Remi" Tinubu, who has taken aim at Meghan's skimpy clothing and her bid to be a role model for young Nigerian women.
"We don't accept nakedness in our culture," Tinubu declared, urging Nigeria's teenagers and young people to reject risqué Hollywood fashion trends. "This is not the Met Gala. The nakedness [for women] is everywhere while the men are well-clothed. That is not beautiful. So we have to do something."
The Duke and Duchess of Sussex, who recently flew back to their $14 million Montecito mansion after the three-day visit, were treated like bona fide royals during their stay, showcasing causes they care about, including Harry's beloved Invictus Games for wounded warriors. Meghan, who is 43 percent Nigerian according to a DNA test, even signed a guest book thanking officials for "welcoming me home."
However, the wife of Nigeria's president, Bola Tinubu, is clearly miffed and is urging her country's girls not to emulate American celebrities like Meghan. "They do not need to mimic film stars from America," Remi Tinubu stated. "They don't know where they come from. Why did Meghan come here looking for Africa? We know who we are. Don't lose who you are."
The reaction to Meghan's fashion choices was swift and scathing online. "Meghan managed to create an international incident!" said a royal observer on X. "We warned her about the clothes." Another critic blasted, "It was disgraceful to dress that way, especially in the presence of children. It is a pattern of behavior for Meghan and Harry. They need to stop using Nigeria and Africa as a PR prop."
Royal insiders have also joined the chorus of jeers, with a high-level palace courtier telling The National ENQUIRER, "Meghan should be humiliated. Every true royal knows the number one rule when visiting another country is to learn and respect the culture. Nigeria isn't Hollywood, and Meghan's all-out 'look at me' fashion choices were frankly wrong and inappropriate."
Meghan set off the firestorm by parading around the country in sleeveless dresses while her husband reportedly wore three-piece suits. "Nigeria's first lady made it clear women like the Duchess of Sussex are not good role models for Nigerian girls," the courtier continued. "I have to admit there were snickers in the palace when Meghan was called out. It certainly took the luster off their visit and dented their apparent intent to bill themselves as parallel royals."
The courtier added, "Meghan wants to be a superstar on the international stage, but this basic error makes her a laughingstock."
The controversy surrounding Meghan's attire has overshadowed the couple's efforts to establish themselves as influential figures on the global stage. As they navigate the complexities of cultural sensitivity and diplomatic protocol, the Duchess of Sussex's fashion choices have become a cautionary tale for royals and celebrities alike.