By Ere-ebi Agedah
Renowned singer, Yemi Alade, has opened up about her challenges in winning awards within Nigeria’s entertainment industry, attributing her limited success to her steadfast refusal to yield to sexual advances from organizers.
The celebrated ‘Johnny’ crooner revealed that numerous entertainment executives had propositioned her in the past, offering career advancements in exchange for sexual favors. However, she asserted that she chose to maintain her dignity and integrity by declining such offers, despite the potential for enhanced opportunities.
In a statement quoted by WithInNigeria, Yemi Alade lamented the prevailing culture within the industry, where success often seems contingent upon compliance with such demands. She candidly expressed how these encounters have hindered her from securing accolades in her homeland, citing the influence of men as a significant barrier to her recognition.
Reflecting on her principled stance, Yemi Alade affirmed her decision to abstain from compromising situations, even if it meant foregoing certain career prospects. She emphasized that her loyalty lies with her fans and her sense of self-respect, rather than succumbing to pressures for short-term gains.
The singer elaborated on the repercussions of her choice, acknowledging the closed doors and missed opportunities that resulted from her refusal to engage in exploitative exchanges.
“Going down with men was like a bridge I had to cross to get on some platforms, get some deals and even awards. When I made my decision never to engage in sexual activities for gains, lots of opportunities were automatically blocked for me.” She said.
