Veteran Yoruba actor Ebun Oloyede, popularly known as Olaiya Igwe, has revealed one of the biggest regrets of his life — turning down gospel singer Tope Alabi’s request to use his car for her wedding years ago.
Speaking at Tope Alabi’s 55th birthday celebration, the actor recounted how the incident has continued to trouble him despite seeking forgiveness.
According to Olaiya, he had just bought a brand-new Mercedes-Benz V-Boot, proudly labeled “Ololade Mr Money 1” following the success of his hit film. Shortly after, Tope Alabi informed him of her upcoming wedding and requested to use the car for the event.
He said he initially agreed, but fear made him change his mind after a previous car theft experience in Ibadan, where the same vehicle was stolen during a movie promotion.
“When Tope came to me and said, ‘Big brother, please we want to use your car for our wedding,’ I said no problem. But a day before the wedding, I stopped picking up her calls,” he admitted.
The actor explained that his refusal was not out of ill will but anxiety over losing his prized possession again.
“It was not out of malice,” he said. “It was fear of losing what I had just acquired and failing someone I considered a younger sister.”
Olaiya confessed that though Tope Alabi has since forgiven him, the guilt remains, especially now that the gospel star owns multiple luxury cars while he struggles to afford one.
He used the opportunity to advise younger entertainers to make thoughtful decisions and avoid actions they may regret later in life.
Meanwhile, Tope Alabi recently marked her 55th birthday in grand style, receiving a Lexus SUV gift from her husband, Soji Alabi, to celebrate the milestone.
