The winner of Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) ‘Level Up’ season 7, Ijeoma Josephine Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has taken to social media to call out the organisers of the show, MultiChoice, for their inability to pay her winning cryptocurrency prize money worth over N100 million.

Phyna, who was in tears during an Instagram Live session, expressed her frustration and disappointment over the unpaid prize money, which had been owed her since the show ended two years ago.

She urged the organisers to pay her the 1BTC prize money, which had increased in value to over N100 million.

The development sparked uproar on social media, with many fans and celebrities reacting with diverse opinions

It has raised questions about the transparency and accountability of reality TV shows in Nigeria and the need for clearer guidelines and regulations to protect the rights of participants.

Phyna: I had two abortions because my parents were poor

While some drew support for Phyna, others questioned her approach in seeking redress.

Daniel Regha, on X, urged Phyna to take legal action, instead of relying on social media outcry.

Regha wrote: “Phyna keeps complaining online that she’s owned 1BTC, but what stops her from taking legal actions?

“It’s almost as if she’s more focused on the weekly clout and not the supposed money. BBN organisers aren’t above being dragged to court, this is a simple case. She’s not serious.”

Another X user, ThisisTolu, enjoined Phyna to seek legal redress and explore other options to recover her prize money.

She stated: “Hey Phyna, I know you’re feeling really down right now, and it’s completely understandable.

“Crying is a natural response when something unfair happens, especially when it’s about something significant like being owed 1BTC from BBN.

“That’s a lot of money, and it’s not just about the financial aspect – it’s about trust and respect as well.

“Consider reaching out to BBN again, maybe through a formal letter or email, detailing your situation and the impact this has had on you.

“Sometimes, a clear, calm, and professional approach can be very effective. If necessary, you might want to seek legal advice or help from a consumer rights organization.

“They can provide guidance on how to proceed and ensure that you get what you are owed.”

The Star