Nollywood actress Shaffy Bello has spoken out about being addressed by youngster using her first name, and she feels it is offensive.
Bello shared her thoughts on the matter, emphasizing that she prefers to be called “Ma’am” as a sign of respect.
Bello agreed that greetings vary throughout cultures, pointing out that some, like the Igbos in Nigeria, use terms like “cousin” or “aunty” as a sign of respect. She also mentioned that it is traditional to refer to elders in the US as “sir” or “ma’am.”
However, she firmly believes that younger people should not address her by her first name, Shaffy. She explained that she has earned the right to be called “Ma’am” due to her age and experience.
“You haven’t earned the right to call me by my name.”
“I have a child as old as you are. Even if I didn’t have children, you haven’t earned the right, and you would never earn the right at your age to call me my name.” she said.
Bello also expressed her dislike for being greeted with a simple “Hi” and a wave. “I can’t stand it when people greet me with a ‘Hi’ and wave at me,” she confessed. “It irks me so much.”
