A video of content creator Kuye Oghenevwede Adegoke, popularly known as Egungun of Lagos, interviewing a 23-year-old woman who claims to have a dramatically reduced rib cage has provoked widespread concern and scepticism across social media.
The woman, identified as Abdulahi Rukayat Oluwaremilekun — also known as Ewatomilola — told Egungun she achieved her tiny waist through what she described as “ribs reconstruction,” adding that she now has “four ribs instead of the normal 24, two on each side.” The claim has attracted disbelief and alarm from medical professionals and online commentators alike.
Medical experts say the assertion is medically implausible and potentially dangerous. Dr Chinonso Egemba, known online as Aproko_doctor, criticised the interview for spreading misinformation. “We need to go back to basic education. Like primary school education,” he wrote in reaction to the clip, urging better public understanding of anatomy and risks associated with extreme cosmetic procedures.
Several users and health commentators pointed out physiological concerns, noting that the rib cage protects vital organs including the heart and lungs. One social-media commentator asked bluntly: “How will she carry a baby?” Another queried the survivability of having only four ribs.
Legitimate surgical procedures to alter the rib cage do exist but are limited and carry significant risks. Cosmetic rib removal is generally confined to minor resections of floating ribs and is not medically sanctioned to leave a person critically unprotected. Surgeons warn that extensive rib resection can compromise organ protection, breathing mechanics and long-term health.
Egungun’s interview, which has been widely shared, has prompted a debate about content responsibility. Critics say the video glamorises extreme body modification without probing medical veracity or highlighting potential dangers; supporters argue it shows individual choice and bodily autonomy.
Egungun did not make medical claims himself but allowed the guest to describe her experience at length. The clip has since prompted calls for clearer labels on sensational content and for influencers to seek expert input when dealing with health-related claims.
