Tems Confronts Body-Shamers, Receives Support Online

ABUJA, Nigeria — Award-winning Nigerian vocalist Temilade Openiyi, known as Tems, spoke out against body-shamers on Tuesday after facing ridicule online regarding her figure. The singer expressed her frustrations in response to a fan’s post that mocked her appearance, claiming she has ‘large thighs, not an actual backside.’

‘Alright, after seven years, it’s time to cease. I never anticipated I’d have to articulate this, but you all are peculiar… It belongs to me,’ Tems stated, highlighting her discomfort with the ongoing comments about her body.

Tems emphasized that she has not hidden her physique and does not owe explanations to anyone. In her response to those urging her to ‘display her backside,’ she challenged, ‘Nah, show ME yours first? Experience how that feels? It’s merely a body. I will gain and lose weight.’

The post, shared on her official X account, garnered over 1.2 million views and sparked broad support from fans across social media platforms. Tems added, ‘The more you dislike my body, the more it actually benefits me. But it’s enough now. Move on from my curves.’

Renowned for hits like ‘Free Mind’ and a Grammy-winning collaboration with Wizkid on ‘Essence,’ Tems stands out as a major figure in Nigeria’s music scene.

Meanwhile, Muyiwa Awoniyi, the manager of Tems and other notable Nigerian artists, issued a strict warning to those disrespecting his clients. In a social media post, he asserted that while personal attacks do not affect him, any insults directed at Tems, Omah Lay, or Lekan would be taken seriously.

‘I’ve stated it before and I will reiterate it. Insulting me? I can handle it. However, if you insult Temi, Stanley, or Lekan? We will encounter an issue. ‘Till next time, farewell for now,’ he wrote, emphasizing his commitment to protecting his artists.