“Man and woman can never be ‘just best friend'” — Man warns women
A social media post by a Nigerian man has triggered intense debate online after he argued that men and women cannot remain “just best friends” without emotional consequences.
The post, shared on X, formerly known as Twitter, claimed such friendships often threaten romantic relationships and eventually lead to heartbreak, mistrust, or public embarrassment.
Claim That Sparked the Debate
In the post, the man warned women against keeping close male friends while in relationships, insisting that boundaries are often crossed over time.
He wrote: “Women need to understand this because it affects their relationship more. Men and women can NEVER be ‘just (best) friends.’ It is impossible. One person will always catch feelings.
“You keep that one male ‘bestie’ who listens to all your problems, shows up when your man doesn’t, knows everything about you that your man doesn’t even know about.
“You swear it’s platonic. Then one day he confesses. Or you start seeing him differently. Or your boyfriend finds the messages.
“Relationship scatters. You come online crying, acting shocked. Your eye don clear now? Stop the delusion before it costs you everything.”
The message quickly went viral, attracting support from some users and criticism from others.
Mixed Reactions From Social Media Users
Many commenters agreed with the man’s stance, saying opposite-gender friendships often blur emotional boundaries during relationship problems.
Ayo wrote: “The moment trouble hits the relationship, that ‘friend’ becomes an option, not by accident, but by design. This isn’t about control or jealousy. It’s about boundaries.”
Gafar shared a stronger view, claiming such friendships sometimes become intimate.
He wrote: “I have said this countless times to any woman that cares to listen,but most of them will deny the fact that they at some point catch feelings and sometimes even become Friends With Benefits with their so-called bestie.”
Calls for Clear Relationship Boundaries
Others argued that partners should prioritise each other emotionally above any outside friendships.
Aktar wrote: “THIS is what I’m ALWAYS trying to explain to people! Your spouse or partner should be your best friend-even above your female friends. If you still need males to boost your ego you shouldn’t be attached and especially married.”
Another user, Arakunrim, took a more direct approach in his response.
He wrote: “No man should tolerate such nonsense from any woman.”
