Drama erupted in Kenya’s National Assembly when veteran legislator  Millie Odhiambo responded provocatively to Speaker Moses Wetang’ula’s reprimand. Representing Mbita Constituency, Odhiambo asserted her achievements as a four-term lawmaker come from embracing a “bad girl” persona. “Do not be cheated by the African culture where you’re told to be decorous. I’m telling you, you’ll get nowhere. Be a bad girl like me and you’ll get somewhere,” she declared.

She cited her favorite book, Nice Girls Don’t Get the Corner Office, to support her stance. “Mr. Speaker, if there are  good girls, they never get the corner office. Be as bad as Millie Odhiambo and you’ll be a mother of this house,” she continued. Odhiambo’s remarks sparked widespread discussion, with some commending her for challenging gender roles and others criticizing her for endorsing negative behavior.

@kenyanske

Good girls never get the corner office. Be a bad girl like me and you’ll get somewhere – Millie Odhiambo #Kenyans #KenyansOnTikTok

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In a world where traditional norms and expectations often attempt to box women into predefined roles, a new breed of trailblazers are shattering glass ceilings with an unapologetic flair. These women, often labeled as “bad babes” by a society that fears their defiance, are rewriting the rules and claiming their rightful spots in the ‘corner office’. From stages, to screens to startups, they’re not just participating in the game, they’re changing it. This is a celebration of those fierce, resilient, and bold women who dared to defy expectations and are now leading the charge in their fields. Welcome to the era of the bad babes.

In the words of the self-proclaimed Mummy of Lagos, Bobrisky, “good girl no dey pay oh,” a mantra many are starting to adopt. As a significant figure in Nigeria’s pop culture and queer climate, Bobrisky embodies the bold defiance of societal norms. Modern society and recent events show that being a bad girl doesn’t hinder success. It highlights the need to hone your skills and embrace your bad girl power to excel in whatever you pursue.

@big_treshly

Good girl no dey pay ooo 💅🏾🥰🥰🥰 #bigtresh #fypppppppppppppppppppppp

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There are bad girls, and then there are bad girls. If I had to create a list of those who’ve claimed the corner office, these are some of the women who would top it.

Ayra Starr

Ayra’s style might raise eyebrows. She’s the kind of girl parents warn you about at school, rocking mini skirts that sometimes leave little to the imagination. But success isn’t just about appearance or conforming to norms; Ayra has found her unique sound, her community, and is unapologetically enjoying herself.Since breaking into the Nigerian music scene, Ayra Starr has achieved remarkable success, securing several notable achievements in the industry. Her hit track “Rush” holds the record as the most-watched music video by a Nigerian female artist and is the only song by a Nigerian female artist to attain diamond certification in France.

Ozzy Etomi

Ozzy Etomi is a fearless feminist voice on Nigerian Twitter, known for her unwavering advocacy for gender equality and fearless approach to calling out injustices. Often dubbed the untamable feminist, she boldly challenges norms and sparks important conversations with her creative flair.

As co-owner of Dye Lab alongside Rukky Ladoja, Ozzy has cultivated a devoted following with their sustainable, locally sourced designs. Endorsed by Ozinna from This Day Style, their pieces are celebrated for blending artistry with comfort. 

She also stands as a strong ally of the LGBTQ community in Nigeria, where support is scarce, making a meaningful impact across various spheres. 

Jollz

Jola Ayeye lives life boldly, fearlessly speaking her mind and challenging norms on social media. She’s transformed this into her strength, carving out a successful path with her podcast, “I Said What I Said.” With a global audience exceeding 120,000 monthly listeners and sold-out live shows, ISWIS ranks among Africa’s top podcasts. Jola isn’t just a co-host; she co-founded and heads development at Salt & Truth, a prominent Lagos-based production company. 

As a seasoned scriptwriter, she’s credited with hits like Far From Home and The Smart Money Woman. Jola launched the wildly popular “Happy Noisemaker” book club in late 2020, cementing her influence in West Africa. For followers of ISWIS, Jollz is celebrated as a fearless bad girl who fearlessly speaks her truth, and doesn’t care what you think!

Shade Okoya

Regardless of what anyone says about her, Shade remains a queen in her own right. She blazed a trail for others to follow, proving that a life of luxury funded by inherited wealth is achievable. Folashade Nimota Okoya is not just a Nigerian industrialist and businesswoman, but also a fashion commentator, serving as the MD/CEO of Eleganza Group, and others in Nigeria established by her husband, Chief Razaq Okoya, a billionaire industrialist and Aare of Lagos.

Shade’s marriage to Mr. Okoya at the age of 21, with him being 59. Described as competitive by her children, as reported by Premium Times Nigeria, Shade holds prestigious titles including Bewaji of Lagos, Otun Aare Iyalaje of Ajiranland, Yeye Oge of Epe Land, and Ajisewa of Oke Ona Egba. Bagging titles like a true baddie, that’s a babe we stan.

Tiwa Savage

She’s literally called “No.1 African Bad Gyal,” how wouldn’t the queen be on the list? How many 44-year-olds do you know who look as good as Tiwa Savage? She embodies the spirit of a bad babe, dominating the Nigerian music scene with unmatched talent and a fearless presence. Her physique is stunning, and her music is electrifying.Tiwa has defied industry norms and redefined success on her own terms, advocating for gender equality and pushing boundaries with her innovative approach. Her global impact and unwavering dedication continue to inspire generations. 

Honorary mention:

Dora Akunyili

Dora Akunyili was the epitome of a bad babe, revolutionizing Nigeria’s pharmaceutical sector with her fierce dedication and integrity. As the Director-General of NAFDAC, she fearlessly took on counterfeit drug manufacturers, risking her life to ensure public health and safety. Her relentless pursuit of justice and unwavering commitment to ethical standards set her apart as a formidable force in the industry. Despite numerous threats, Akunyili remained undeterred, embodying the true spirit of a bad babe. Her legacy continues to inspire many, showcasing that courage and determination can indeed change the world. A woman we stan forever.