In a candid interview with Baba Ibe TV, veteran Nollywood actor Olaiya Igwe revealed his deepest regret, which continues to haunt him years later. The actor expressed remorse for disappointing renowned gospel singer Tope Alabi on her wedding day, an incident he described as a painful memory that still weighs heavily on his conscience.
The story dates back to the peak of Igwe’s career, following the success of his popular film “Ololade Mr Money.” At the time, Igwe had just purchased a luxury car, a “V boot,” which he proudly customized with the inscription “Ololade Mr Money 1.”
However, shortly after acquiring the car, it was stolen during a trip to Ibadan, Oyo State, where Igwe had gone to showcase one of his films. Although the car was recovered the next day, the incident left him shaken.
Around the same time, Tope Alabi and her husband, Soji, approached Igwe to borrow the car for their wedding. Initially, Igwe agreed to their request, but after reflecting on the recent robbery, he began to worry about the car’s safety.
Fearing that it might be stolen again, he decided against lending it to the couple. To avoid confronting the situation directly, Igwe stopped answering Tope Alabi’s calls the day before the wedding, leaving her without the promised vehicle.
Reflecting on the incident, Igwe admitted that his actions caused significant hurt and disappointment to Tope Alabi, whom he considers a younger sister.
Despite seeking her forgiveness during a professional meeting in Ogun State, Igwe revealed that the guilt still lingers. “What hurt me most, and still hurts me, is what I did to my younger sister, singer Tope Alabi,” he said. “I disappointed her, and up till today, I’m still in pain that I offended her.”
Igwe also expressed admiration for Tope Alabi’s success, noting that she now owns multiple luxury cars—some of which he cannot afford. “She now has countless luxury cars, some of which I cannot afford,” he said. “My greatest regret is disappointing Tope Alabi.”
The actor’s heartfelt confession highlights the lasting impact of his decision and the importance of trust and accountability in personal relationships. While Igwe has sought forgiveness, the incident serves as a poignant reminder of how actions, even those driven by fear or caution, can have enduring consequences.