Nigerian media personality and actress Omotunde Adebowale-David, famously known as Lolo 1, has bravely opened up about a deeply traumatic chapter in her life—revealing she was raped by a male colleague in the broadcasting industry.
In a powerful and emotional conversation on her podcast ‘Say My Piece’, which she co-hosts, Lolo recounted how the incident left her scarred and struggling with trauma, especially because the man involved is still active—and prominent—in the same industry.
“I Have Been Raped Once in My Life”
Speaking candidly, the actress admitted that she rarely talks about the assault, not just because of the pain, but also because of the fear of backlash and judgment.
“I hardly ever say this, and I am not even ready to tell the full story… I have been raped only once in my life, and I was raped by a colleague. I see him every other day. Do you know how traumatised I am? When I see him, I just get into this momentary panic.”
She went on to explain that one of the reasons she kept silent for so long was because of societal reactions—especially now that the man in question is taking on a major television role.
“If a woman of my calibre named him… won’t people say, ‘How come I didn’t speak about it for all these six years until now that he’s taking a prominent TV position?’”
A Conversation With Her Daughter Sparked Reflection
Lolo 1 also revealed that it was a conversation with her daughter that reignited the emotional weight of her experience.
“When I discussed it with my daughter yesterday, she held my hand and said, ‘Mummy, you’ve gone through so much.’”
Highlighting the Silent Struggles of Survivors
Lolo’s revelation sheds light on the psychological burden many survivors of sexual assault silently carry. She spoke on how women often respond to assault with self-doubt and guilt:
“When sexual assault happens to women, the first thing to happen is denial. The next thing is self-blaming.”
Her courageous confession has sparked conversations across social media, with many applauding her strength and honesty, and calling for safer environments within the Nigerian entertainment and media industries.
The Bigger Picture
Lolo 1’s experience echoes that of many survivors who remain silent for years due to stigma, fear, and the power dynamics at play in workplaces. Her story is not just personal—it is a reflection of the urgent need for accountability, support systems, and platforms that protect survivors instead of silencing them.
As more public figures come forward with their truths, the hope is that Nigerian society becomes one where survivors are believed, supported, and empowered to seek justice—no matter how long it takes.
