Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Yemi Ayebo, popularly known for his iconic role in the classic Yoruba film Yemi My Lover, has opened up about his disappointment with Afrobeats star Olamide for allegedly failing to acknowledge or compensate him after using his name in a song.
In a recent interview, Ayebo revealed that he was initially thrilled to hear the music star reference his name in the hit track. However, that excitement quickly turned into disappointment when he realized there would be no follow-up recognition or appreciation from Olamide.
“When Olamide used my name in his song Yemi My Lover, I was so happy but he didn’t compensate me. Pasuma gave me Olamide’s number & I called him for over six months but he never picked up, so I just let it go…,” the actor shared during the interview.
According to Ayebo, he had brought up the matter while speaking with Fuji music star Pasuma, who was surprised to learn that there had been no form of compensation or even contact between the actor and Olamide. In response, Pasuma decided to mediate by giving Ayebo the rapper’s direct number.
Despite the effort, Ayebo said all attempts to reach Olamide went unanswered, he called for six consecutive months and also sent text messages, none of which were acknowledged.
Yemi Ayebo, whose character in Yemi My Lover became a cultural reference point in the late 1990s and early 2000s, has long been regarded as a pioneer in Yoruba romantic musical films. Many fans consider his influence foundational in blending music with storytelling in Nollywood.
While he insists he holds no grudge, Ayebo admitted the snub was disheartening, especially considering how impactful the Yemi My Lover brand had become in Nigerian pop culture.
Despite the experience, the veteran actor says he has moved on.
