Doyinsola David, popularly known as Doyin and a former BBNaija All Stars housemate, recently shared insights with Sabi Radio on why her friend, Ilebaye Odiniya, clinched the N120 million top prize on the reality program.
In the Sunday night finale, Ilebaye, a 22-year-old model from Kogi State, emerged victorious among the six finalists.
Doyin suggested that Ilebaye’s victory might be attributed to what she referred to as “Nigerians’ underdog mentality.” According to this perspective, Nigerians often rally behind individuals they perceive as being marginalized or oppressed by a group.
During the interview, Miracle OP, the host, delved into the dynamics of reality shows and the common strategy of isolating contestants. He noted that isolating a participant, especially early in the game, tends to make Nigerians view that person as a hero due to their underdog status.
We’ve seen different types of strategies [in reality shows]. And I don’t know why people still do this where they isolate somebody. Once you isolate somebody, especially so early in the game, human beings, especially Nigerians have the mentality that if a group of people are oppressing one person, that one person is our hero. It’s the underdog mentality,” Miracle OP explained.
Doyin agreed with this viewpoint, emphasizing that Ilebaye’s storyline on the show seemed to align with this narrative.
In Doyin’s words:
True. I think her [Ilebaye’s] storyline was meant to play out the way it played out.”
However, Doyin also disclosed feeling betrayed by Ilebaye when her friend reconciled with another housemate, Venita, behind her back after a confrontation they had during their time in the house.
