A young Nigerian man has sparked widespread conversation on social media after challenging what he describes as an outdated household habit among many Nigerian fathers — the refusal to carry their plates to the kitchen after eating.
In a passionate video clip circulating online, the man called on modern-day men to break free from what he considers a relic of past generations. According to him, the practice of leaving dirty dishes on the table for someone else to clear should be a thing of the past.
“That thing some fathers do—where they just get up and leave their plates behind after a meal—should have ended with their generation,” he said.
“If you can walk to the kitchen to wash your hands, then you can carry your own plate. Who exactly are you expecting to clean up after you? Are you waiting for a slave?”
His remarks have since stirred intense debate, with many social media users weighing in on what they see as a deeper issue of gender roles, entitlement, and domestic responsibility in Nigerian homes.
Public Reactions: Divided Opinions
The post quickly gained traction across platforms like X (formerly Twitter) and TikTok, drawing both support and backlash.
@dera_nessa commented:
“God knows I never picked up anyone’s plate. It’s your wife enabling your bad habits that keeps packing after you.”
@Ozi_ohu added a humorous take:
“Most of them don’t even wash their hands in the kitchen; they come equipped with a washbowl right at the dining table.”
@Tammywarmate offered a nostalgic perspective:
“We actually used to wait eagerly for our dad to finish eating. There was always a little something left—maybe a piece of meat or fish.”
@StoneXPhp took issue with the generalization:
“Relax, not everyone will raise kids who think like you.”
@IfeanyiDeclan reacted sharply:
“You sound bitter. Maybe your father disowned you, and now you’re taking it out on every other dad.”
Changing Household Norms
This viral moment has reignited discussions around domestic dynamics and evolving expectations in Nigerian families. Many believe it’s time to challenge traditional norms that excuse male domestic indifference, while others argue that such expectations are culturally embedded and shouldn’t be judged harshly.
Regardless of where one stands, the post has added fuel to a long-standing conversation about fairness, respect, and shared responsibility in modern households.
