Laide Bakare defends taking daughter clubbing at 17, sparks parenting debate

Nollywood actress Laide Bakare has stirred a wave of controversy online after revealing that she introduced her teenage daughter to clubbing and alcohol at the age of 17.

The actress made the disclosure during a recent interview with content creator Mr Lilgaga, where she said she took pride in being the first to introduce her daughter to nightlife.

“She will reference me in her memoir” — Laide Bakare

According to Bakare, her decision to expose her daughter to nightlife early was deliberate and, in her view, empowering. She expressed pride that her daughter would likely acknowledge her as the one who introduced her to the club scene and alcohol.

“I took my daughter to the club for the first time at 17. And I like the fact that in her memoir, she would reference me as the person who introduced her to alcohol and clubbing,” she said.

While she did not disclose the name of her daughter during the interview, Bakare emphasized that her parenting approach is based on openness, exposure, and trust rather than restriction and secrecy.

Social media reacts: “Reckless parenting” or honest openness?

The actress’s revelation has since gone viral and sparked heated debates on social media, especially on X (formerly Twitter). While some users criticized her parenting style, others defended her, arguing that exposure with parental supervision is better than secrecy.

Here are some notable reactions:

• @It_hafizski wrote:
  “Introducing a 17-year-old to alcohol and nightlife is reckless parenting, not cruise. At that age, guidance and discipline should come first, not clubbing.”

• @Just_2undey commented:
  “Some of these people are not worth the pedestal people place them on. All these coming from someone who calls herself a mother.”

• @DamiTheOG said:
  “Many of those you admire are often poor role models as parents.”

• @Shuluemp questioned:
  “Which kind of mother takes pride in introducing her 17-year-old to alcohol and clubbing?”

• On the flip side, some supported her unconventional style:

  • @Sturbyrich noted:
    “Low-key this thing normal. At least her daughter will be free to talk to her about anything. If she no carry her go club, she’ll still go by herself and might even do worse things.”

  • @Brainpink added:
    “Make una leave her. That’s how she wants to train her girl. If you dey overprotect, sometimes she will still go to the club, drink alcohol, and still smoke join — and you won’t notice. But sha, small small ooo.”

The cultural divide on parenting

Bakare’s comments have reignited a broader cultural debate in Nigeria about modern parenting, the influence of celebrity lifestyles, and the balance between protection and exposure in raising children.

In more conservative circles, especially in Nigerian society, introducing minors to alcohol and clubs is widely frowned upon. However, others argue that openness in parenting can reduce rebellion and risky experimentation.

Celebrity parenting in the spotlight

Laide Bakare is not the first Nigerian celebrity to face criticism over her parenting choices. As public figures, actors and entertainers are often held to a higher standard, with many Nigerians expecting them to serve as role models both on and off screen.

While some fans appreciate the honesty in her approach, others fear the message it sends to young fans and parents alike.

Final thoughts

Laide Bakare’s revelation may have been intended to show openness and build trust between parent and child, but it has also opened up a much-needed conversation about boundaries, exposure, and responsibility in parenting.

Whether her approach is viewed as progressive or problematic, it’s clear the debate is far from over.