Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker Yemi Ayebo, popularly known as Yemi My Lover, has publicly expressed disappointment in award-winning Nigerian music star Olamide, accusing him of ignoring repeated attempts at communication after using his name in a hit song.
In a viral social media interview, the actor revealed that despite his happiness about the use of his name in Olamide’s music — which significantly boosted his popularity — the gesture did not translate into any form of direct appreciation or connection.
“Olamide was the first to use my name in his song, and I was so happy. My name is blessed by God, that’s why people like Davido, Olamide, and skit makers are using it,” Yemi said. “But since then, I’ve not received anything — not even a thank you or reply to my messages.”
The actor further disclosed that his only verbal exchange with Olamide came through the intervention of Fuji icon Pasuma, who called the singer on his behalf after a conversation between them about the song’s impact.
“Pasuma asked me if Olamide settled me for using my name, and I said no. That I hadn’t even met him before. Pasuma then called Olamide immediately, and handed the phone to me. Olamide told me to collect his number and call him,” he recounted.
However, Yemi My Lover claims that what seemed like a promising interaction quickly turned into months of silence. “For over six months, I called that number and sent messages, but Olamide never picked or replied.”
Despite feeling neglected, the actor acknowledged that the name-drop came with positive publicity and helped revive public interest in his career. “In fairness, using my name gave me more recognition, but courtesy demands acknowledgment or at least a return call.”
The situation has sparked conversations across social media, with fans divided over the expectations of older entertainers when their names or works are referenced by younger, more prominent figures in today’s digital culture. Some sympathize with Yemi’s sentiment, arguing that respect and acknowledgment are necessary in the entertainment industry. Others, however, insist that name-dropping in songs is often a cultural reference and not an automatic endorsement deal.
Olamide, one of Nigeria’s most successful and influential musicians, is known for mentoring emerging talents and blending street vibes with mainstream appeal. However, this is not the first time he’s been called out by colleagues or fans regarding perceived silence after collaborations or name mentions. Similar concerns have been publicly aired by other entertainers such as Portable and Skepta in recent years.
Yemi My Lover gained fame in the early 2000s with his self-titled Yoruba romance movie, which remains a cultural reference point in Nollywood. While his acting presence has dwindled in recent years, his legacy has continued through memes, viral content, and now music references.
As of press time, Olamide has not issued any response to Yemi Ayebo’s claims. The issue, however, underscores the growing tension between veteran entertainers and the younger generation of stars in Nigeria’s fast-evolving pop culture scene.