Veteran Yoruba actor Ebun Oloyede, popularly known as Olaiya Igwe, has recounted the emotional story behind why he once turned down gospel singer Tope Alabi’s request to use his car for her wedding ceremony years ago.

Speaking during a recent interview, the actor revealed that his decision was not out of pride or malice, but out of fear—a lingering trauma from a painful experience that left him extremely protective of his prized vehicle. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

A Car He Cherished Deeply

Olaiya Igwe explained that, at the time, he had just purchased a Mercedes-Benz V-Boot, which he affectionately branded “Ololade Mr Money 1.” The car was a personal symbol of success, coming shortly after the release of one of his blockbuster Yoruba films that established him as a household name in Nollywood.

He recalled that Tope Alabi, who was preparing for her wedding, reached out to him with a humble request — to borrow the Mercedes for her big day.

“I initially said yes,” Olaiya admitted, “but as the day drew closer, I couldn’t shake off the fear that something might happen to the car. I had worked too hard to own it.”

A Traumatic Experience That Sparked Fear

The actor revealed that his fear was rooted in a previous traumatic incident in Ibadan, where the same car was stolen during a movie promotion tour.

Although the vehicle was eventually recovered, the experience left him deeply shaken. He confessed that the emotional scars from that incident made it difficult for him to trust anyone with his property again — even for a joyful occasion like Tope Alabi’s wedding.

“After the car theft in Ibadan, I became paranoid,” he said. “That car was like a child to me. So, when Tope asked for it, I panicked. I kept imagining the worst — what if something went wrong again?”

Avoiding Calls and Living with Guilt

Olaiya Igwe revealed that a day before the wedding, he began avoiding Tope Alabi’s calls out of anxiety and confusion.

“I didn’t know how to tell her no directly,” he explained. “So, I avoided her calls. It wasn’t pride; it was fear. Even till today, I feel guilty about it.”

He further disclosed that he later sought forgiveness from the gospel music icon, emphasizing that he holds no grudges or regrets toward her and continues to admire her incredible success and spiritual journey.

Tope Alabi’s Blessed Journey

Despite that moment years ago, Tope Alabi has continued to flourish both personally and professionally. The award-winning gospel artist recently celebrated her 55th birthday, where her husband, Soji Alabi, surprised her with a brand-new Lexus SUV — a gift that symbolized love, partnership, and divine favor.

Fans have since praised both stars for their humility and maturity, commending Olaiya Igwe for owning up to his past decisions and sharing a heartfelt story that reflects the human side of fame and fear.

A Lesson in Humanity and Forgiveness

Olaiya Igwe’s confession serves as a reminder that behind every celebrity story lies genuine emotion — fear, love, and the desire to protect what one values. His honesty has struck a chord with many Nigerians, sparking conversations about forgiveness, human imperfection, and the lessons life teaches along the way.