Popular Nigerian singer and songwriter Tiwa Savage has opened up about some of the most painful experiences she has endured in her personal life, admitting that the trauma from these events almost pushed her into a dangerous mental state.
Speaking during an interview with Apple Music, which was shared on the official Instagram page of Old Man Ebro on Thursday, September 11, 2025, the award-winning artist candidly reflected on how her private struggles, including the release of her sex tape, marital breakdown, and relationship issues, affected her wellbeing.
Tiwa Savage, often hailed as the “Queen of Afrobeats,” explained that despite her public image of confidence and glamour, she has had to navigate very dark and lonely periods.
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She revealed that she sometimes resorts to humor as a coping mechanism to mask her pain. “My group can testify that I’m somebody who likes to joke about everything, and I always joke about things that happened to me so that people won’t say anything about it,” she said.
The singer went further to share that the accumulation of these experiences brought her to a breaking point. “I have been hurt by so many things recently, and it got to the point that I thought about harming myself.
I wanted to feel the pain physically even though it was an emotional pain because I went through a lot of trauma. My sex tape was released, I had relationship issues, and I suffered divorce. There was no medication for everything I went through, so I felt I needed to opt for a more physical solution,” she confessed.
Her statement has sparked widespread reactions online, with many fans praising her courage for speaking out on such sensitive issues. Social media users have described her as a strong woman who has managed to keep her career thriving despite challenges that could have silenced others.
Mental health advocates have also applauded Savage for shedding light on struggles that many entertainers face behind the spotlight. They argue that her openness could inspire other public figures and ordinary Nigerians alike to prioritize their mental health and seek support.
Tiwa’s experience underscores the intersection of celebrity life, privacy breaches, and societal judgment. The leaked tape, which went viral years ago, sparked significant controversy and public shaming.
While she managed to maintain her career, she admitted that the incident left deep scars. Coupled with her divorce from her former husband Tunji “Tee Billz” Balogun, Tiwa’s revelations illustrate the heavy toll that personal and public crises can take.
In addition to recounting her painful past, the singer used the interview to highlight the importance of resilience. She emphasized that even though she had moments of despair, she has chosen to channel her pain into her music and personal growth.
“I believe my story is one of survival. If I can speak about it now, it means I’ve overcome some of the darkness, and I want people to know they can too,” she added.
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