Actor Yemi Ayebo Laments Lack of Compensation After Olamide Used ‘Yemi My Lover’ in Song
Veteran actor Yemi My Lover feels ignored after Olamide used his name in a hit song.
Despite months of unanswered calls, he says he hoped for simple courtesy or recognition.
Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Yemi Ayebo, popularly known as “Yemi My Lover”, has expressed disappointment over what he describes as a lack of acknowledgment and compensation from music star Olamide for using his iconic name in one of his hit songs.
Speaking during a recent interview, the Yoruba film star recounted how thrilled he initially was when he heard Olamide mention “Yemi My Lover” in his track. According to Ayebo, he saw it as a sign of respect and recognition for the cultural significance his nickname carried over the years.
However, that excitement quickly turned to disappointment when he realized that there had been no attempt by the artist to reach out or show appreciation. Ayebo recalled asking Fuji musician Pasuma whether Olamide had reached out, to which Pasuma responded negatively. In an effort to bridge the gap, Pasuma shared Olamide’s contact details with him.
“I got his number from Pasuma and started reaching out,” Ayebo said. “I called for over six months, sent several text messages, but I never got a response. Eventually, I just gave up and moved on.”
The actor added that while he harbored no resentment, he had hoped for some sort of courtesy from Olamide, considering the influence his name had in Nigerian pop culture and its link to his personal brand.
Online reactions have been divided. Some social media users expressed sympathy for the actor, while others dismissed his claim. A few questioned whether simply mentioning a public figure’s name in a song truly requires compensation.
Despite the backlash, Ayebo’s comments have reignited discussions around intellectual property, recognition, and the importance of mutual respect between artists and the cultural icons they reference.
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