Veteran Yoruba actor, Ebun Oloyede, popularly known as Olaiya Igwe, has opened up about why he turned down gospel singer Tope Alabi’s request to use his car for her wedding years ago.
The actor revealed that his decision was born out of fear, not ill intent. He recalled that he had just bought a Mercedes-Benz V-Boot, proudly inscribed “Ololade Mr Money 1”, after the success of one of his films.
According to him, Tope had informed him of her wedding plans and requested the car, which he initially agreed to lend before changing his mind.
A haunting experience
Olaiya explained that his hesitation stemmed from a recent traumatic experience in Ibadan, where the same car was stolen while he was promoting his movie.
Though the car was later recovered, the incident left him anxious and overly protective of his new vehicle.
The actor admitted that he avoided Tope’s calls a day before her wedding out of fear that something might happen to the car if he released it.
Seeking forgiveness
Olaiya said he has long sought forgiveness from Tope, noting that the guilt still weighs on him.
He emphasised that his refusal was not from malice but from fear of another painful loss.
Interestingly, at her 55th birthday celebration, Tope Alabi received a Lexus SUV from her husband, Soji Alabi, a gesture that marked a joyful milestone in her life and career.