By DAYO ADESULU
A Brave Voice in Nollywood
Popular Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo recently shocked fans with a painful confession about her past. Speaking during an emotional interview, the actress revealed that she had been a victim of rape on several occasions. Her statement has since sparked conversations about sexual violence in Nigeria and the resilience of women who survive it.
Iyabo Ojo, known for her outspoken personality and bold roles in film, showed a different side of herself — a survivor who has carried deep scars behind her fame.
Breaking the Silence
During the revealing interview on “Talk to B with Biola Bayo,” Ojo disclosed that her journey into adulthood was marked by traumatic experiences that she has rarely spoken about publicly.
“I was raped multiple times while growing up. I didn’t tell anyone because I felt ashamed, afraid, and powerless,” she confessed, holding back tears.
Her courage to speak up, she explained, is not about reliving the pain but about inspiring other survivors to find their voice.
Why Her Story Resonates
Rape remains a heavily stigmatized issue in Nigeria. Many survivors are silenced by shame or fear of being blamed, which often allows perpetrators to go unpunished. Iyabo Ojo’s decision to go public breaks cultural barriers and brings the conversation into mainstream Nollywood.
Her revelation also highlights the psychological toll of sexual violence. Despite her pain, Ojo emphasized that speaking up has helped her heal and regain control of her narrative.
From Pain to Advocacy
Far from being defeated by her past, Iyabo Ojo has used her platform to advocate for victims of abuse. She urged young women never to see rape as their fault and encouraged survivors to seek support instead of suffering in silence.
“Rape does not define you. It is not your shame to carry — it is the abuser’s. If you are a victim, please speak out. Your healing begins when you share your truth,” she said.
Her emotional words have added her voice to the growing chorus of Nollywood stars raising awareness about sexual assault and demanding accountability.
Fans and Public Reaction
After the clip surfaced online, Nigerians flooded social media with mixed reactions — most praising Ojo’s bravery, while others expressed shock that such a beloved actress endured such hardship.
One fan commented: “Iyabo Ojo’s courage to speak out is everything. She is turning her pain into power.”
Another wrote: “Her story shows us that celebrities are also human. We must support survivors instead of judging them.”
The story has since become a rallying point for women’s rights activists and organizations calling for stronger laws against sexual violence.
A Stronger Nollywood Voice
Iyabo Ojo’s revelation has added another layer to her public image. Beyond her glamorous roles and social media presence, she is now seen as a survivor whose voice can inspire change.
Her story is also a reminder that Nollywood is not just about entertainment but can also be a platform for real-life advocacy. By sharing her truth, Ojo has not only unburdened herself but also paved the way for other survivors to speak out without shame.
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