DeeOne Sparks Debate: “TikToker Peller More Relevant Than Genevieve Nnaji in Today’s Internet Culture”

In a bold and controversial statement, former Big Brother Naija housemate turned comedian, Aderombi Adedayo Martin—popularly known as DeeOne—has stirred online debate after claiming that TikTok influencer Peller holds more relevance in Nigeria’s digital space than Nollywood icon Genevieve Nnaji. DeeOne made this assertion during a recent podcast appearance, arguing that social media presence is now the dominant metric for public influence.

He insisted that while Genevieve remains a celebrated figure in Nigerian entertainment, her reserved social media approach is gradually pushing her out of the spotlight. According to DeeOne, celebrities who do not actively engage or post on social platforms risk becoming irrelevant in today’s content-driven environment.

“Genevieve not talking much on social media is not helping her. Genevieve not posting on social media every time is reducing her brand. Let me rephrase it — anybody who is not posting constantly is not top of mind,” he stated.

DeeOne further challenged the perception that legacy alone can sustain a celebrity’s popularity in a world that increasingly values constant visibility. “What makes her [Genevieve] different from other actresses? Number one from when? Since which year? Peller right now is more relevant on the internet space in Nigeria than Genevieve Nnaji,” he added.

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Peller’s Rise and Genevieve’s Silence: The Focus on Digital Visibility

The core of DeeOne’s argument rests on the shifting standards of relevance in the digital era. Peller, known for his frequent TikTok streams and viral content, has grown a formidable online presence, especially among younger Nigerians who spend significant time on social platforms. In contrast, Genevieve Nnaji, once regarded as the queen of Nollywood, has taken a quieter route, rarely posting or engaging online.

This observation has raised critical questions about what it means to be “relevant” in 2025. While some argue that legacy, talent, and contributions to the industry should be paramount, others, like DeeOne, believe that digital silence is equivalent to brand erosion.

Social media analysts suggest that constant visibility keeps public figures at the center of online conversations. Whether through Instagram stories, Twitter threads, TikTok trends, or YouTube content, remaining present helps build engagement, secure brand endorsements, and maintain cultural relevance. DeeOne’s remarks may sound harsh, but they reflect a growing sentiment that in today’s attention economy, visibility is king.

DeeOne Also Criticizes Kiddwaya Over Benue Donations

Beyond his comments on Genevieve and Peller, DeeOne also took a swipe at fellow BBNaija star Kiddwaya regarding his handling of donations for victims of the recent killings in Benue State.

Kiddwaya had called on Nigerians to contribute to his foundation, asking for as little as ₦500, claiming that every contribution mattered. While his appeal was framed as humanitarian, DeeOne did not hold back, accusing Kiddwaya of opportunism.

He posted on Instagram, “If Kiddwaya is broke, he should just say it.” He also recalled how Kiddwaya once boasted about spending $30,000 on a single plate of jollof rice and losing €70,000 in Ibiza without any remorse, questioning his sincerity in suddenly requesting public donations.

DeeOne even alleged that Kiddwaya was attempting to replicate the success of VeryDarkMan, a social critic who reportedly made substantial earnings through his NGO work. “He just wants to copy VeryDarkMan and make money from it too,” DeeOne claimed.

Public Reaction: Mixed Feelings on Influence, Legacy, and Authenticity

The remarks by DeeOne have ignited a firestorm of opinions on social media. While some users supported his viewpoint, emphasizing the importance of staying active online to remain relevant, others defended Genevieve’s right to privacy and criticized the growing obsession with virality over substance.

Critics argue that true impact doesn’t always demand a constant online presence and that comparing a TikTok influencer to a globally recognized actress with decades of contributions to the film industry is a false equivalence. Meanwhile, others saw his critique of Kiddwaya as fair, accusing some celebrities of turning activism into financial opportunities.

Regardless of where the public stands, DeeOne’s comments have spotlighted a larger cultural debate—how much does social media visibility define influence in today’s entertainment world?