Lawal notably credited the COVID-19 pandemic as a defining moment in her life. While the era was turbulent for many, she saw an unexpected financial breakthrough. “COVID was the turning point in my life. I made N10 million in a week or two,” she said, describing it as a period that significantly transformed her fortunes.
However, the actress also found herself the subject of online controversy. She addressed persistent rumours suggesting she had received a Venza car as a gift from Lagos transport chieftain MC Oluomo. Dismissing the allegations, Lawal clarified that not only did she not receive any such vehicle, but the story was entirely fabricated.
“One man, I wonder if it was a set-up or if he had smoked something, placed a camera in front of him and claimed MC Oluomo collected a Venza and gave it to me,” she recounted. “I have respect for MC Oluomo because he has helped people I know, but I didn’t collect any car from him. Why would I die mysteriously when I didn’t eat mysteriously?”
Lawal urged the public to respect her name and acknowledge her achievements. “I didn’t even drive a Venza. I drive a GX 460, and my shop is like the fourth or fifth building. I did all that myself.”
Reflecting on her early struggles, Lawal shared stories of grit and resourcefulness. She recalled beginning to drive at age 16 and taking long, uncomfortable night bus journeys to avoid spending on hotel accommodations while pursuing her acting career.
“I would take the night bus to Oshodi from Abba, wearing a nose mask and face cap. People saw me then but didn’t say anything. I didn’t want to spend money on hotels, so I joined vehicles transporting chickens from Abba to Ibadan and sometimes Ijebu Ode—until I started travelling to China,” she said.
The actress also opened up about her family dynamics, particularly her father’s conflicting views on her career. Although he encouraged her to study Theatre Arts, he was uncomfortable with the idea of her becoming an actress due to societal stereotypes.
“My dad actually wanted me to study Theatre Arts, but my mum was against it. He didn’t know I started acting until after he died. I kept it from him because he believed actresses don’t have stable marriages or give birth outside wedlock.”
On social media culture, Lawal expressed dismay at the hostility she often observes. “Nobody likes anybody on social media, that’s what I’ve noticed,” she said. Despite the criticisms and challenges, she remains grounded and reflective.
“I have enjoyed and suffered life like a ball,” she concluded. “My grandmother used to say, ‘May your days be rough,’ because a smooth life doesn’t prepare you for longevity.”
With a thriving business portfolio, a successful acting career, and a clear-eyed view of fame, Aisha Lawal stands as a testament to resilience, self-reliance, and the strength of women forging their own paths in a world quick to judge and slow to understand.