Since popular Yoruba actress, Moji Olaiya, walked out of her marriage; it has been particularly difficult to track her down. Saturday Vanguard cornered her at an Inter House sports competition event in Gbagada, Lagos, where she was the matron of one of the Houses competing for prizes at the event.
Many actors have complained over time that the government has abandoned the film industry, in what respect can the government assist the industry?
I think with the aid of the government, we can overcome piracy. The government has failed to help the industry and that is not what is happening abroad. There are some who, however, make money from people in government.
Have you been a benefactor of such favour before?
No, I have not.
But you were appointed a brand ambassador in Ekiti state?
Yes, I am a cultural ambassador in Ekiti which happens to be a privilege bestowed upon me by the governor. It is a gesture to appreciate and recognise my cultural impact on the youths in the state and the country Nigeria at large.
Are you saying being an ambassador of that state has no monetary benefit?
Being a cultural ambassador of a state comes with the responsibility of promoting the state. It also means being a mentor to the youths and creating avenues for them to showcase their talents in the industry.
Have you ever felt like quitting acting?
Coming into the industry was borne out of passion, so I cannot quit acting for anything in the world.
Even marriage?
I can never quit acting for any marriage. I have said it in many interviews that even when I re-marry, the man will have to love me and my profession.
You once said you are an evangelist in one interview.
I have never said I was an evangelist. I only likened acting to preaching through our movies. So that is it.
You came into limelight in an English soap, Super Story, but now you feature more in Yoruba films.
I have many English soaps running at the moment so it is not as if I have left the English scene.
Are you a Muslim or a Christian?
I am a Muslim.
But you were once a Christian, what happened?
Yes, I converted. I fell in love with Islam. I am not saying Christianity is not an acceptable religion but as an adult, I am at liberty to choose any religion I like. I might decide not to practice any religion tomorrow.
Is this traceable to your background; having a Muslim mother that converted Christianity?
Somehow she might have influenced me because as a child I watched her go to the mosque five times a day. I love Islam; their mode of praying is peaceful. The religion does not have the denominational problem like Christianity. I can go into any mosque to pray any time.
What is your relationship with popular Victor Olaiya as some believe you are not his child?
I don’t want to say much about this. If these people say I am his niece, does that not also make him my relative. And as relatives, I can also call him father. So this issue is not logical regardless of their arguments. He is my father.
Which female accessories would you never be caught without?
My earrings and wristwatches.
Perfumes?
I am not addicted to any brand of perfumes. I go for any as long as it is a designer perfume and has nice fragrance.
How have you been coping after separation from your husband?
A woman needs a man in her life. There are things a man would do that you cannot do as a woman but I have no regret leaving my marriage.
Why did you say you have no regrets?
I have no regret leaving my marriage but I regret not being under a man’s roof. It is not respectable in this part of the world. But I try to comport myself even as a divorced woman and as a typical Yoruba woman and to avoid scandal. I have a daughter to protect and cater for.
What was the cause of your failed marriage?
The marriage was not working so I had to quit. My partner went as far as abusing me so I had to leave to protect myself and my daughter.
You mean domestic violence?
Yes, domestic violence is just the right word.
Any man in the picture at present?
I am in a relationship but I am yet to be legally separated from my husband.
Were you legally married?
Yes. So at the right time I will reveal who the man is. I need somebody beside me.
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