Adewunmi Fatai, one of Nollywood’s most sought-after makeover artists and the baby mama of actor Mustapha Sholagbade, recently opened up about a deeply personal and embarrassing chapter of her life during an emotional interview on Biola Bayo’s *Talk to B* podcast. Known for her talent and transformative skills in the makeup industry, Adewunmi recounted how she was falsely accused of stealing gold while in the UK—a shocking allegation that left her devastated and exposed the darker side of the entertainment world.
The single mother of one revealed that the accusation not only hurt her personally but also affected her family deeply. She shared that when she learned of the false claim, she broke down in tears and immediately called her mother to confide in her. “I cried,” she recalled. “When I told my mummy on the phone, she was crying too.” The gravity of the situation was compounded by the fact that the accuser reportedly urged others to take her son away from her, adding another layer of pain to an already harrowing experience.
Adewunmi emphasized that this incident is no secret within the industry, as many insiders are aware of what transpired. However, she admitted that she had no prior knowledge of the accusations until they were brought to her attention. The ordeal left her feeling humiliated and vulnerable, especially given the public nature of her career. Despite the challenges, she has chosen to speak openly about her experience, shedding light on the struggles faced by creatives behind the glitz and glamour of show business.
Beyond the theft allegations, Adewunmi also addressed the stigma attached to being a baby mama—a label she says has subjected her to judgment and ridicule in certain professional circles. She recounted an incident where a married woman in the industry belittled her at an event because of her status as a single mother. “When people were served food, she told me to wait and said that only married women would get food first, and I was just a baby mama,” Adewunmi revealed. The comment, though seemingly trivial, carried a weighty implication, highlighting societal biases against unmarried mothers even in spaces meant to foster creativity and collaboration.
Despite these challenges, Adewunmi remains grateful for the individuals who supported her early in her career and helped pave the way for her success. She specifically credited Dele Ogundipe and Oluwole Cole Baraka as instrumental figures who believed in her potential when she was still finding her footing as a beautician. “God used someone, Dele Ogundipe, for me when I was growing up as a beautician,” she said. “The first person who bought me a makeup box when I started was Oluwole Cole Baraka.” These acts of kindness, she noted, were pivotal in shaping her journey and enabling her to rise above adversity.
Adewunmi also sang the praises of actress Yetunde Barnabas, whom she described as one of her best producers. “Not everyone can be like Yetunde Barnabas,” she stated, acknowledging the actress’s professionalism and support. This statement underscores the importance of having allies in an often cutthroat industry where relationships can make or break careers.
While Adewunmi’s story sheds light on the unique challenges she has faced, it also draws parallels with other high-profile cases involving similar accusations. Last year, actress Lizzy Anjorin found herself embroiled in controversy after being accused of defrauding a jewelry vendor at Lagos Island Market in Idumota. Videos circulating online showed the Yoruba star allegedly involved in a dispute over gold jewelry. In response, Lizzy took to Instagram Live to vehemently deny the allegations, blaming them on attempts by individuals like Iyabo Ojo to tarnish her reputation. The incident sparked widespread debate about the prevalence of such accusations and the impact they can have on public figures’ lives.
For Adewunmi, the battle extends beyond personal attacks and into systemic issues within the entertainment industry. She described the challenges as “more than a generational curse,” suggesting that external forces—such as envy, rivalry, and prejudice—often exacerbate existing difficulties. Her candid reflections serve as a reminder that success in Nollywood comes not only from talent but also from resilience in the face of adversity.
As she continues to thrive in her craft, Adewunmi’s openness about her struggles offers valuable insights into the realities faced by creatives in Nigeria. By sharing her story, she not only validates her own experiences but also amplifies the voices of others who may feel silenced or marginalized. Moreover, her emphasis on gratitude—for mentors, supporters, and opportunities—highlights the importance of community and solidarity in overcoming obstacles.
To those who have doubted her abilities or questioned her worth, Adewunmi delivered a powerful message: “I am not expensive; it’s you who can’t afford me.” This bold declaration encapsulates her confidence and determination to succeed despite the odds stacked against her.
In conclusion, Adewunmi Fatai’s revelations provide a sobering yet inspiring glimpse into the complexities of life in the limelight. From baseless accusations to societal judgment, she has navigated numerous hurdles with grace and perseverance. Her story serves as both a cautionary tale and a testament to the strength required to thrive in an unforgiving industry. As she moves forward, Adewunmi stands as a beacon of hope for aspiring artists and professionals, proving that resilience and authenticity can triumph over adversity.
