Every year, Big Brother Naija churns out a fresh batch of housemates who dominate social media, spark endless group chat debates, and, if they play their cards right, cement their place in the cultural zeitgeist. But only a select few manage to linger in our memories long after the season ends.
To test just how deeply some of these housemates have embedded themselves in fans’ minds, we ran a 24-hour Twitter poll asking: “Which BBNaija housemate still lives rent-free in your head?”. Tacha led the charge with a commanding 45% of the votes in the first poll, followed by Mercy Eke (29%), Laycon (23%), and Whitemoney trailing at 3%. In the second poll, Erica stole the show with 48%, ahead of Tobi Bakre (28%), Ilebaye (16%), and Kiddwaya (8%).
Of course, while fans are still obsessed with the legends of past seasons, Season 10, tagged 10/10, is currently serving fresh drama, unexpected alliances, and meme-worthy moments in real time. We’re covering it all live on our Twitter page, so if you’re not already plugged in, you’re missing premium tea.
But before we get lost in this season’s drama, let’s take a trip down memory lane. From viral outbursts and fashion slays to career reinventions and fanbase wars, here are the BBNaija stars fans still can’t stop thinking about, we even asked 10 die-hard fans to tell us who and why.
Tacha – Chidinma, 26
“Say what you want about Tacha, but no one, and I mean no one, has entered that house with her level of self-confidence.
And whether you love her or not, she changed the BBNaija game. And don’t even get me started on the fanbase, Titans will fight you with facts and receipts.”
Mercy Eke – Tunde, 25
“Mercy gave us premium content. I was glued to my screen throughout because of her. But beyond the drama, I respect her hustle. She stepped out of the house and built an empire.
She was the first female winner, and she carried that win with boss energy. Every time I see her trending, I smile because she’s proof that BBNaija can launch real stars.”
Laycon – Fola, 28
“Laycon’s story was so relatable. The underdog, the guy who wasn’t conventionally handsome or flashy, yet he had substance. I started watching that season halfway through, and by then, he’d already become the heart of the house.
His music, his calmness, his intelligence, I was rooting for him like he was my cousin. His journey from being misunderstood to winning felt like a big win for all of us who’ve been counted out before.”
Erica – Kamsi, 28
“Listen, Erica was the main character. From her friendship with Kiddwaya to the way she wore her heart on her sleeve, she brought vulnerability and fire to that house. Her disqualification still hurts to this day.
But even after that, she rose. I stan a comeback queen. And no matter how many seasons go by, there’s always a little Erica moment that goes viral again. She gave us reality TV gold.”
Whitemoney – Moses, 35, Chef
“Whitemoney reminded me of every funny uncle at family functions. His charisma, the kitchen takeover, the pidgin, he was entertainment. I didn’t think he would win at first, but he grew on me.
I saw someone who understood how to play the long game without losing himself. I still watch his old clips on TikTok when I need a good laugh.”
Tobi Bakre – Ayo, 29.
“Tobi Bakre had the looks, the vibe, and the camera angles! That season felt like a movie, and Tobi was one of the main reasons.
I liked how he matured throughout the show, especially with the way he handled emotional situations. His post-BBNaija glow-up into acting and fitness has just been beautiful to watch. A fine man with sense? Yes, please.”
Kiddwaya – Derin, 25
“Kiddwaya was rich-boy-soft-life content. I won’t lie, I initially watched him for the eye candy, but then I started appreciating his chilled energy and lowkey playboy chaos.
After the show, he remained relevant without trying too hard. His interviews are always hilarious. I don’t know if it’s intentional or not, but that man is unserious in the best way.”
Ilebaye – Seyi, 24
“Ilebaye’s arc was so underrated at first. People wrote her off as just another Gen Z babe, but the way she stood her ground was inspiring.
She didn’t try to shrink herself to be liked, and that takes guts in a space like BBNaija. She might not be everyone’s fave, but for some of us? She’s that girl.”
Tobi Bakre– Jay, 24
“Tobi Bakre!!, I mean, can’t you see how he acts? That guy is so good, and he has charisma for days. He was never boring.”
Laycon– Olamide, 27
“Laycon’s BBNaija journey felt like watching a complete arc in a coming-of-age film. He was underestimated from the start, but he stayed calm, played smart, and let his music and mind do the talking.
His win was everywhere that year; in fact, I still go back to rewatch his rap performances and diary sessions when I need motivation.”
