Veteran Nigerian actress Olayinka Adebanjo has made a heart-wrenching public appeal for support in her quest to become a mother again following the tragic loss of her only son, Adeniyi Ishola, who died unexpectedly at age 28 while playing football.
Speaking on the Talk2B podcast, Adebanjo, whose acting career spans four decades, shared the devastating impact of losing her son, a qualified nurse whose sudden death has left an irreplaceable void in her life. The actress, who began her journey in the Nigerian film industry in 1983, revealed her struggles with cruel societal judgment, including being mockingly labeled an “old age barren woman” in the aftermath of her loss.
The veteran performer, known for her powerful portrayal of radical characters in Yoruba films, spoke candidly about her previous attempts to explore various paths to motherhood. She detailed her visits to adoption centers in Abeokuta and the significant financial investments she has made in pursuing medical evaluations, emphasizing her preference for carrying her own child rather than adopting.
“I want to carry my child. I do not want to carry another person’s child,” Adebanjo expressed emotionally during the podcast, revealing the depth of her maternal yearning. Her vulnerability was particularly poignant as she described the cruel irony of losing her son just as she was about to “enjoy the fruit of her labour” after supporting him through his nursing education.
The actress’s plea has sparked important conversations about motherhood, grief, and societal attitudes toward women who have lost children. Her situation highlights the complex emotional and social challenges faced by women who experience child loss in Nigerian society, where motherhood is often viewed as a primary measure of feminine fulfillment.
During the podcast discussion, the host proposed surrogacy as a potential solution, estimating the cost at approximately N20 million. This suggestion brings attention to the growing acceptance of alternative paths to parenthood in Nigeria, while also highlighting the significant financial barriers that often accompany these options.
Adebanjo’s story resonates particularly deeply within the context of Nigerian entertainment industry, where public figures often face intense scrutiny over personal matters. Her courage in sharing such a private struggle publicly demonstrates both her desperation and determination to achieve her dream of motherhood again.
The actress’s appeal for help extends beyond financial assistance, touching on the emotional support needed by individuals dealing with child loss. Her candid disclosure about fearing a sudden death adds another layer of urgency to her plea, revealing the profound psychological impact of her loss and subsequent struggles.
As a respected figure in Nollywood with a career dating back to her secondary school days in 1983, Adebanjo’s public vulnerability marks a significant moment in Nigerian entertainment culture, where personal struggles are often kept private. Her willingness to share her story could potentially help break down stigmas surrounding child loss and alternative paths to parenthood in Nigerian society.
The situation also sheds light on the broader issue of healthcare access and fertility treatment options in Nigeria, where advanced reproductive technologies are available but often at prohibitive costs for many citizens. Adebanjo’s case underscores the need for more accessible and affordable fertility treatments and support systems for individuals facing similar challenges.
As the Nigerian public and entertainment community process this emotional appeal, Adebanjo’s story serves as a powerful reminder of the enduring impact of child loss and the complex journey of healing and hope that follows. Her courage in sharing her story may pave the way for more open discussions about grief, motherhood, and the various paths to parenthood in contemporary Nigerian society.
