A Nigerian woman recently shared a surprising experience. Identified as @user6119812239816 on TikTok, she detailed how a cultural shock cost her employment. This occurred in the United Kingdom.
In a video, she recounted the event. She had complimented a female colleague. The colleague had just returned from leave. The woman said her coworker “looked good.” She also mentioned the colleague “had added some weight.” This remark, she believed, was a warm compliment. Such comments are common in Nigerian culture.
Unexpected Reaction from Coworker
This remark, intended as friendly in her home country, deeply upset the colleague. The coworker subsequently reported the comment. Management interpreted it as body-shaming.
Management’s Investigation and Employment Termination
A formal meeting was convened. She faced severe criticism there. The accusation was “calling someone fat.” Her attempts to clarify the positive intent were dismissed. She was then instructed to go home. Her employment status remained pending.
The woman never returned to work. She concluded her dismissal was inevitable.
She further elaborated on the incident in her TikTok video.
She explained her previous video discussed her sacking. This resulted from complimenting a colleague. She recounted telling the colleague she looked good and had “added some weight.” This seemingly innocent comment was labeled body-shaming.
The colleague reportedly cried. She promptly reported the incident to management. A meeting followed. Questions were raised about why she called someone “fat.”
She felt devastated and angry. She clarified that in her culture, this is a mere compliment. Management did not accept her explanation. They sent her home.
She was told to await a decision. She understood this meant termination. She highlighted the stark cultural differences encountered.
The full account can be viewed in her original TikTok video.
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