Nigerian Nollywood actor Jim Iyke has stirred controversy with recent comments suggesting that single mothers are incapable of raising boys into "proper men" without the presence of a male role model.
Speaking during an interview on Okay 101.7 FM in Accra, Ghana, the actor argued that while women are naturally nurturing, they are not "built" to instill the discipline and strength he believes are essential in raising male children.
"A woman can’t raise a man. You can’t — you’re not built for it," Iyke said. "A single mother cannot raise a man properly. You need a male influence — go get your brother that’s doing well, or your father, or even any man that you trust. There has to be a male presence in it [raising a boy child]."
He added, "Because women are naturally built to nurture, to love. And then what you’re going to raise is a very weak man. He is going to be everything like the men that left you. You need somebody that would discipline him, tell him ‘No’ as often as possible, and put him in the grind."
Iyke’s remarks have sparked a heated response online, with many praising his candor while others criticize his views as outdated and dismissive of the efforts of single mothers.