UK-Based Nigerian Woman Urges People To Block Family Members Who Only Call For Financial Help, Sparks Debate Online

 

A Nigerian woman living in the United Kingdom has stirred conversations across social media after advising people to cut off family members who reach out only when they need financial assistance. The woman, identified as Obiageli Juliana Okoro, took to Facebook on Sunday to share her candid opinion about the growing pressure placed on individuals living abroad by their relatives back home.

Her post, though brief, carried a powerful message that resonated with many. Obiageli expressed frustration with the way some families depend solely on one member for financial support, often disregarding that person’s emotional or personal struggles. She encouraged such individuals to take control of their peace and set firm boundaries, even if it means blocking family members who treat them as nothing more than a source of money.

According to her post, “If your family only calls you for financial help, block them. You are more than two in your family but you are the only one they call for financial help! Block them! Block your family! If anything happens to you, they will move on sharperly.”

The post quickly went viral, gathering hundreds of comments and shares within hours. Many Nigerians, both home and abroad, weighed in on the discussion, with opinions sharply divided. Some supported her stance, arguing that family pressure can be overwhelming and emotionally draining, especially for those living in foreign countries where the cost of living is high. Others, however, felt her advice was too harsh and that family obligations should never be completely severed, no matter the circumstances.

A user identified as Uche Nnamdi commented that people living abroad are often wrongly perceived as wealthy simply because they live in countries like the UK or the US. “They forget that we also have bills, rent, taxes, and daily struggles. It is not easy here,” he wrote. “Sometimes, you can barely save anything after working so hard, yet people back home think you are swimming in money.”

Another respondent, however, disagreed with Okoro’s approach. A woman named Chioma Ogbodo argued that family ties should not be broken because of money. “It is okay to say no when you cannot help, but blocking your family is extreme,” she said. “You never know when you might need them too.”

Despite the mixed reactions, many admitted that her statement highlighted a real problem faced by members of the African diaspora. Several individuals living abroad have often complained about feeling pressured to send money home regularly. Some even describe it as an emotional burden, noting that their relatives rarely check on them unless they need financial aid.

The situation is not unique to Nigeria. Across many African and Caribbean communities, people living overseas often feel responsible for the welfare of their extended families. This cultural expectation has created financial strain for many who already struggle with adapting to life abroad.

Okoro’s post has reignited conversations about personal boundaries, emotional health, and financial independence within families. Many social commentators have praised her for voicing what others are afraid to say. They believe that her boldness may inspire others to reassess how they manage relationships with financially dependent relatives.

Some mental health experts have also weighed in on similar issues in recent years, warning that constant financial requests from family members can lead to stress and burnout. Psychologists emphasize the importance of setting clear boundaries to maintain emotional stability and financial discipline. They advise that while helping loved ones is commendable, it should never come at the cost of one’s peace of mind.

For many Nigerians abroad, Okoro’s message is both relatable and controversial. Her advice to “block” family members may sound extreme to some, but to others, it reflects a growing need for self-care and balance in relationships often strained by money. Whether people agree with her or not, her post has clearly struck a nerve and sparked an important conversation about the expectations placed on those who live abroad.

As discussions continue to unfold online, Obiageli Juliana Okoro’s statement serves as a mirror to the realities faced by many in the diaspora. Her words might be blunt, but they echo a sentiment that is quietly shared by countless people who feel used, unappreciated, or emotionally drained by the constant demands from home.

Her message reminds everyone that it is okay to say no, it is okay to prioritize mental well-being, and sometimes, it is okay to draw the line, even if it means blocking those who refuse to see beyond financial help.