Popular Nigerian actress and media personality, Omotunde Adebowale-David, fondly known as Lolo 1, has opened up about being raped by a male colleague in the broadcasting industry.
In a deeply emotional episode of her podcast, Say My Piece, released on Friday via YouTube, the former Jenifa’s Diary star recounted the traumatic experience that continues to haunt her.
According to Lolo 1, the rape occurred several years ago and was carried out by someone she still encounters today in the media space. Although she chose not to name the individual, she explained that her silence over the years has been driven by fear of backlash and victim-blaming.
“I have been raped only once in my life, and it was by a colleague,” she revealed. “I see him every other day. Do you know how traumatized I am? When I see him, I just get into this momentary panic.”
The actress noted that revealing the identity of the perpetrator now may lead people to question why she didn’t speak up earlier—especially since the man now holds a prominent position in the media industry.
Lolo 1 also spoke on how women often struggle with denial and self-blame after sexual assault, adding that the path to healing is complicated.
She said, “When sexual assault happens to women, the first thing to happen is denial. The next thing is self-blaming.”
The heartbreaking disclosure has stirred conversations online, with many praising her bravery for speaking out and shedding light on the realities survivors face.