Nollywood actor Yemi Ayebo accuses award-winning rapper Olamide of failing to acknowledge or compensate him after using his name in music, despite efforts to connect through Fuji legend Pasuma.
Lagos, Nigeria – June 20, 2025
Veteran Nollywood actor Yemi Ayebo, famously known as Yemi My Lover, has publicly expressed disappointment in Nigerian music star Olamide, accusing the rapper of ignoring his calls after using his name in a song.
In a recent video interview circulating on social media, the actor opened up about his unreciprocated efforts to establish contact with Olamide, despite the artist’s use of his name “Yemi My Lover” in a hit track. The actor claims he reached out to Olamide multiple times, even going through Fuji legend Pasuma, but to no avail.
“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 Davido, Olamide, and others including skit makers use it,” Yemi said in the emotional interview.
“I Was Happy, But He Never Picked My Calls”
According to the actor, he initially celebrated Olamide’s use of his iconic name in a track, considering it a sign of respect and recognition. However, the joy soon turned to concern when no effort was made by the artist to reach out or even acknowledge him personally.
The actor recalled a conversation with Pasuma, who was surprised that no compensation or even formal introduction had occurred between the two entertainers.
“Pasuma asked me, ‘Yemo, did Olamide settle you for using your name in his song?’ I told him no, I had never even seen him in person before,” Yemi recounted.
Following this revelation, Pasuma decided to intervene and called Olamide directly in Yemi’s presence. It was during this call that Yemi and Olamide spoke for the very first time.
“Pasuma handed me the phone and Olamide said I should collect his number from Pasuma and call him,” Yemi said. “I was excited. I thought we would finally connect.”
But that conversation did not lead to further engagement. According to Yemi, he called the number for over six months without success.
“I called him for more than six months. He never picked up. I sent messages and he didn’t reply,” the actor stated.
No Compensation from Singers or Skit Makers
Yemi Ayebo also revealed that no musicians or skit makers who have used his name or brand have offered him any form of compensation or recognition. Despite his cult status in the Nollywood romantic genre and a name that has resonated in pop culture for years, Yemi says he has never received any financial benefit from its use in music or digital content.
“Many people have used ‘Yemi My Lover’ in their content, and I’ve never been paid or even acknowledged,” he said.
Although he admits that the viral usage of his name has added to his popularity, the actor insists that a simple acknowledgment or show of appreciation would go a long way.
The Legacy of “Yemi My Lover”
Yemi Ayebo became a household name in the late 1990s and early 2000s after starring in and producing the romantic Yoruba-language film “Yemi My Lover.” The film, which combined romance, drama, and music, was a major hit and earned him a dedicated fan base.
Since then, “Yemi My Lover” has become more than just a movie title — it has evolved into a cultural phrase, often used by musicians, comedians, and online content creators. For many younger Nigerians, especially Gen Z, the phrase is heard more in skits and song lyrics than in its original movie context.
Despite this legacy, Yemi now finds himself struggling to reclaim ownership of the brand he built.
“I’m not saying people shouldn’t use the name, but at least give credit or show respect to the person who made it popular,” he emphasized.
Fans React Online
The video interview sparked widespread reaction on X (formerly Twitter) and Instagram, with fans expressing mixed views. While some believe Yemi deserves credit and even compensation, others argue that public figures must accept their names being referenced in pop culture.
One user wrote, “Olamide should’ve at least returned the man’s call. Yemi My Lover is a pioneer in Yoruba cinema.”
Another commented, “If your name has become part of the culture, take pride in that. Everyone knows who Yemi My Lover is now.”
Olamide Yet to Respond
As of the time of this report, Olamide has not issued a public statement in response to the claims made by Yemi Ayebo. The rapper, known for blending street anthems with Yoruba culture, has a history of incorporating names and references into his lyrics — often to celebrate Nigerian icons and local slang.
The interview video continues to trend, with many urging the rapper to publicly acknowledge the actor and possibly make amends.
Watch the interview clip here:
🔗 https://x.com/Olamide0fficial/status/1935813293798551691?s=19
Final Thoughts: Recognition vs. Fame
While Yemi Ayebo admits that the use of his name by high-profile artists like Olamide, Davido, and content creators has increased his visibility, his appeal remains simple — recognition and respect.
“My name is blessed by God, and that’s why it keeps coming up in music and content. I’m proud of that. But I would appreciate it if those who use it would acknowledge me,” he said.
As conversations around intellectual property and cultural credit continue to grow in the Nigerian entertainment space, Yemi’s call serves as a reminder that even pop culture icons deserve recognition for their contributions — especially from those who profit off their names.
