Sola Benson
Season 11 housemate says “physical confrontation is never a solution” as he thanks supporters.
Former Big Brother Naija Season 11 housemate Victor Ikpe, popularly known as Keivo, has broken his silence following his disqualification from the reality television show, taking responsibility for his actions and thanking fans who supported his journey.
Keivo became the second housemate to be disqualified from the ongoing season after a physical altercation with fellow contestant Tram.
Following his exit, the former housemate released a statement on Thursday reflecting on his time in the Big Brother Naija house. He expressed gratitude to God, the show’s organisers, his family, friends and supporters who backed him throughout the competition.
Keivo acknowledged that the events leading to his disqualification had given him an opportunity to reflect on his conduct, admitting that his emotions got the better of him.
“I’ve had some time to reflect on everything that happened and I take full responsibility for my actions. My emotions took the best of me. Regardless of how strongly I felt, physical confrontation is never a solution to any situation. And I take full responsibility for my actions.”
The reality star also thanked Big Brother and MultiChoice for giving him the opportunity to participate in the popular reality show, saying he valued the experience of sharing his story and connecting with other contestants.
“I sincerely thank Big Brother and Multichoice for the incredible opportunity to be part of this experience. Being in the house, sharing my story, connecting with amazing people and showing myself, I will never take that for granted.”
Keivo reserved special appreciation for his family, friends and supporters, who he said had invested their time, resources, emotions and prayers in his journey.
“To my family, friends and supporters who worked tirelessly, prayed, voted, and stood by me with the hope of seeing me become a finalist, thank you. You believed in me and invested your time, resources, emotions, and love in my journey. I appreciate you more than words can ever express.”
Despite the circumstances surrounding his departure, Keivo said he intended to learn from the experience and become a better person.
“I will learn, become better, and do my very best to make you proud of Keivo the Challenger, the Competitor, the man of many talents, the son of Grace, the VICTOR.”
The former housemate also reflected on his original motivation for entering the competition, saying he wanted Nigerians to have the opportunity to see the person behind the public persona.
“I came into Big Brother’s house hoping Nigerians would see who I am. I leave knowing that millions of people did. Thank you for loving me at my best, and thank you for holding me accountable for my actions.”
Keivo further appealed to God for mercy, wisdom, grace and strength as he begins the next phase of his life.
“I ask God for mercy, wisdom, grace, and strength as I move forward. I trust that he has a purpose for every chapter, including this one. I will continue to trust him.”
He ended his message by appreciating members of the Big Brother Naija community and signalling his intention to move forward from the controversy.
“To every member of this family, new and old, I appreciate you. I love you, and I will do my best to make you proud. So help me God!”
“The beginning of a new chapter. Happy Independence Day Nigeria.”
Keivo’s disqualification makes him the second Season 11 housemate to leave the competition through disciplinary action. Nomy was previously disqualified after repeatedly defying instructions and refusing to wear an assigned punishment outfit.
Keivo’s departure therefore brings his Season 11 journey to an early end, despite the support he had received from viewers who had hoped to see him progress further in the competition.
