Reality TV star and entrepreneur Mercy Eke has said she will no longer date a man who earns less than she does, saying her past relationships have changed her perspective on love and finances.
The former Big Brother Naija winner made the revelation during a recent episode of Toke Moments, hosted by media personality Toke Makinwa, where she spoke openly about supporting former partners financially.
Why Mercy Eke Changed Her Mind
When asked if she would date a man who earns less than her, Mercy gave a firm response.
“No, in fact, no, I won’t,” she said.
She also confirmed that she had financially supported former partners on several occasions.
“Yeah, not once, not twice,” she said when asked if she had ever given money to men she dated.
According to her, she only did so because she had the financial capacity to help.
“Because they don’t have, and I have. So… they don’t have, and I have, and I will give, I will share.”
‘I’ve Been There, Done That’
Responding to Toke Makinwa’s suggestion that some people become successful when given support, Mercy said she was no longer interested in investing in someone’s future based on potential alone.
“I’ve been there, done that. I don’t want prospect again,” she said.
However, she noted that she would stand by a financially successful man who later experienced setbacks.
“If he was a good man, I’ll be there and I will support him. But if you don’t chop your money before…” she added.
Mixed Reactions Online
Mercy’s comments have generated widespread reactions on social media, with many Nigerians debating the role of finances in relationships.
While some agreed with her position, others argued that relationships should not be based solely on income, saying love, commitment and mutual support remain important.
“I can’t date a man who earns less than I do. I’ve supported many men financially and I’m no longer interested.” — entrepreneur Mercy Eke pic.twitter.com/hBrEOuyXZ0
— Instablog9ja (@instablog9ja) July 18, 2026
