The Honest Bunch podcast has denied claims of manipulation by Ugo Nwokolo, the current Mr. Nigeria Supranational.
In January, Nwokolo was featured on the podcast hosted by Nedu, the on-air personality (OAP).
During the interview, the model revealed that “poor girls turn me on”, adding that “the poorer the girl, the more attracted I am to her”.
In the wake of the public backlash over his statement, Nwokolo claimed that Nedu coerced him into making the remarks.
He alleged that he was pressured to say controversial things to generate virality.
“It’s against my character to say such a thing. Poor girls don’t turn me on. Nedu told me that he owns the podcast and said I’ll have to pay N5 million,” he said in a chat with YouTuber Lucky Udu.
“Nedu said I’ll have to say what he tells me to say and that I have to mention VeryDarkMan’s name to make the thing go viral. So I went on the podcast and said the things Nedu asked me to say. I was so depressed and decided to end my life.”
Reacting in a statement via Instagram on Thursday, the podcast organisers denied Nwokolo’s allegations.
The statement said although the model was paid, he was “never pressured to discuss any particular issue”.
“Ugo Nwokolo appeared on our platform for a paid appearance, during which he had the freedom to select a topic of his choice — which he did,” the statement reads.
“At no point did we suggest a specific topic to him, nor was he instructed on what to say, either as a team or individually. Furthermore, he was never pressured to discuss any particular issue. He arrived with a notepad outlining his points.
“We are truly shocked that someone who lacks integrity and dignity — willing to spread falsehoods for fame has been crowned by the prestigious Mr. World Nigeria.
“It is concerning to think that this individual is now set to represent us on the global stage.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to transparency and value the diversity of opinions expressed on our platform, regardless of our personal views.
“We kindly ask that the institution and the Silverbird Group look into the character of this man.”
Last week, Nedu stepped down as host of The Honest Bunch podcast due to controversy surrounding allegations made on the show.
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