In a recent episode of the popular podcast Tea With Tay, Nigerian singer Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, better known as Iyanya, bravely shared his harrowing experience of nearly succumbing to suicide after facing financial ruin in 2020. The 21-year-old singer, known for his hit songs and energetic performances, revealed the depths of his struggle as he lost his house and found himself unable to afford a hotel stay any longer.
The catalyst for Iyanya’s turmoil was a legal battle with his former management company, Temple Management Company, who accused him of stealing a car belonging to the company. This resulted in a prolonged court case that left him unable to perform or earn a living. As he recounted his ordeal on the podcast, Iyanya expressed the immense pressure he faced during this period.
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“When you stop doing shows, you have to rely on your savings. But when you’re at the peak of your career, your spending habits change, and you don’t think about the future,” Iyanya shared. “I reached a point where I realized I needed to start touring again. However, just two days after my last court case, COVID-19 struck, and everything came crashing down.”
With his house gone, Iyanya found himself living in a hotel for an extended period. However, as the pandemic continued to wreak havoc, he faced the grim reality of being unable to pay his hotel bills. It was during this time that he encountered an extraordinary act of kindness from the hotel’s owner, Alaba, who allowed him to stay for over a year.
“I was stuck in that hotel throughout the lockdown. Not being able to perform or tour for over a year, with no income, while simultaneously dealing with a court case, took a toll on me,” Iyanya shared. “There were moments when I felt so overwhelmed that I contemplated suicide. Thankfully, the hotel manager intervened and prevented me from taking such a drastic step. It was a truly chaotic time.”
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Iyanya’s story sheds light on the often unseen struggles faced by celebrities and the impact that financial instability can have on mental health. Despite his fame and success, he found himself at the mercy of circumstances beyond his control. His candidness about his near-suicide experience serves as a reminder that mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their external circumstances.
This revelation from Iyanya not only provides insight into his personal journey but also highlights the importance of mental health awareness and support within the entertainment industry. It serves as a wake-up call to the industry as a whole, urging stakeholders to prioritize the well-being of artists and provide them with the necessary resources to navigate challenging times.
As Iyanya’s story continues to resonate with fans and industry professionals alike, it serves as a reminder that success and fame do not shield individuals from the trials and tribulations of life. It is a testament to the strength and resilience of the human spirit and the power of seeking help and support during times of crisis.
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Iyanya’s candid account of his near-suicide experience amidst bankruptcy sheds light on the dark side of fame and the struggles faced by artists. His story serves as a reminder that mental health should always be a priority, and support systems need to be in place to assist individuals during their most vulnerable moments. It is through sharing stories like Iyanya’s that we can foster understanding, empathy, and ultimately, a more compassionate society for all.
