Acclaimed Nigerian actress and filmmaker Eniola Ajao has shared her devastating experience with online misinformation that nearly drove her to self-harm. Speaking candidly on the popular “Nollywood on Radio” show, Ajao unveiled the profound impact that false news had on her mental well-being and professional life.
The renowned filmmaker described a particularly traumatic period when she encountered damaging false information about herself circulating online. I almost poisoned myself because there was news about me online that was far from true,” Ajao revealed during the emotional interview. The incident marked what she called “the first time in my life that I faced something so painful.
The severity of the situation became apparent as Ajao detailed her week-long ordeal, during which she completely isolated herself and refused to eat. The emotional turmoil was so intense that it began to affect her professional commitments, including the planning of her upcoming film project. The situation grew increasingly concerning as family members witnessed her spiral into depression.
The actress’s son, alarmed by his mother’s deteriorating mental state, reached out to their support network, desperately seeking help as she struggled to cope with the widespread falsehoods. Her sisters also intervened, providing crucial emotional support during this challenging period. “You have to do this for yourself. You don’t have to poison yourself,” they urged, recognizing the serious nature of her distress.
This revelation from Ajao sheds light on a growing concern within the entertainment industry, particularly in Nigeria’s booming Nollywood scene, where celebrities increasingly face the double-edged sword of social media exposure. While digital platforms have become essential for career building and fan engagement, they have also become breeding grounds for misinformation that can have severe consequences on mental health.
The incident also raises important questions about the responsibility of social media platforms and news outlets in verifying information before publication. The ease with which false information can spread online, combined with the immediate and personal impact it can have on individuals, presents a significant challenge in today’s digital age.
For Ajao, the experience was so traumatic that she still finds it difficult to discuss. “I don’t even want to remember those things, honestly,” she stated during the interview, her voice heavy with emotion. This reluctance to revisit the details underscores the lasting impact of online harassment and false information on mental health, even long after the initial incident has passed.
The actress’s story serves as a stark reminder of the human cost of misinformation and the urgent need for better safeguards against the spread of false news. It also highlights the importance of mental health support systems, particularly for public figures who often face increased scrutiny and potential harassment online.
As more celebrities come forward with similar experiences, there is growing recognition of the need for comprehensive approaches to combat online misinformation and support those affected by it. Ajao’s brave decision to share her story contributes to an important dialogue about mental health in the entertainment industry and the broader impact of digital misinformation on society.
This incident also underscores the resilience required to navigate the challenges of fame in the digital age, where the line between public persona and private life becomes increasingly blurred. As Nollywood continues to grow and gain international recognition, stories like Ajao’s serve as crucial reminders of the importance of creating safer, more responsible online spaces for all.
The actress’s willingness to share her experience may help others facing similar challenges and contribute to broader discussions about mental health awareness and the responsible use of social media platforms in Nigeria’s entertainment industry and beyond.
