By Milcah Tanimu
Ilebaye, the victor of Big Brother Naija All Stars, recently shared her disappointment in not receiving congratulations from some of her fellow housemates when she was declared the champion of the reality TV competition. During an interview on Chude Jideonwo’s #WithChude, the renowned actor known for her roles in Papa Ajasco, Super Story, and Binta & Friends, opened up about her feelings of hurt and loneliness following her victory.
In a candid discussion, she revealed her experience of feeling let down by certain housemates who did not extend their congratulations. Ilebaye disclosed that their lack of support brought back painful memories of her past, where she felt betrayed and struggled to make friends. She also discussed the challenges she faced while in the Big Brother house, which left her feeling isolated and battling depression.
“I am still hurt that I didn’t receive congratulations from some of the housemates because I know that if I were in their shoes, I would be happy for them. In the bathroom scene with Ike, she said, ‘I felt sad and lonely, I was like what did I do to deserve this? Even if I have done something to hurt you, you should have just come to me to talk about it, not throwing my clothes. I just felt like ‘God open the ground let it swallow me.’ My energy just went low,” she explained.
When asked about her approach to the All-Stars season, she admitted that her primary goal was to have fun and remain optimistic about making it to the finals. She never expected to win but instead hoped to last until the 6th week or reach the final stage.
Responding to rumors that she used a strategy to gain public sympathy by claiming she was being bullied, Ilebaye dismissed the notion, attributing her victory to grace and the genuine love she received from viewers.
Recounting the challenging moments in the house, she clarified that she was often misunderstood and faced unfair treatment, rather than outright bullying. She also shed light on her interactions with male housemates, emphasizing that her connections with Prince and Cross were not intended to be serious relationships but rather ways to alleviate the boredom of life inside the house.
Looking to the future, Ilebaye has ambitious goals. She aspires to become the world’s top runway model, establish her own orphanage, pursue acting, and start her own business. Her ultimate aim is to discover a venture that reflects her true identity.