> When you are a public figure, people will write and say false things about you. It comes with the territory. Many of those things you brush aside. Many you ig

> When you are a public figure, people will write and say false things about you. It comes with the territory. Many of those things you brush aside. Many you ignore. The people close to you advise you that silence is best. And it often is. Sometimes, though, silence makes a lie begin to take on the shimmer of truth. … > Take the case of a young woman who attended my Lagos writing workshop some years ago; she stood out because she was bright and interested in feminism. After the workshop, I welcomed her into my life. I very rarely do this, because my past experiences with young Nigerians left me wary of people who are calculating and insincere and want to use me only as an opportunity. But she was a Bright Young Nigerian Feminist and I thought that was worth making an exception. … > After she publicly insulted me, it was clear to me that this kind of noxious person had no business in my life, ever again. … > And when you personally know a famous person, when you have experienced their humanity, when you have benefited from their kindness, and yet you are unable to extend to them the basic grace and respect that even a casual acquaintanceship deserves, then it says something fundamental about you.