Why I once refused to lend Tope Alabi my car for her wedding — Olaiya Igwe
Veteran Yoruba actor Ebun Oloyede, widely known as Olaiya Igwe, has revealed why he once turned down gospel singer Tope Alabi’s request to use his car for her wedding many years ago.
Speaking candidly, the seasoned actor explained that his decision was not out of pride or ill will but rather out of fear and past trauma.
Olaiya recounted that he had just purchased a Mercedes-Benz V-Boot, which he proudly branded “Ololade Mr. Money 1”, following the commercial success of one of his movies. Around that time, Tope Alabi, who was preparing for her wedding, asked to borrow the car for the occasion — a request he initially agreed to before backing out at the last minute.
A Traumatic Experience
The actor explained that his change of heart was triggered by a recent frightening incident in Ibadan, where the same car was stolen during a movie promotion event. Although it was eventually recovered, the experience left him deeply shaken and overly cautious.
Haunted by the memory, Olaiya said he avoided Tope’s calls the day before her wedding because he feared losing the car again.
Seeking Forgiveness
Olaiya confessed that he has long sought forgiveness from Tope Alabi, admitting that the incident still weighs heavily on his conscience.
He stressed that his decision was purely out of fear, not malice, emphasizing how much the earlier theft had affected him emotionally.
In a heartwarming twist, years later, Tope Alabi received a Lexus SUV from her husband, Soji Alabi, during her 55th birthday celebration — a gift that symbolized love, success, and new beginnings in her life and career.
