Yinka Ayefele has described his 1997 road accident as the event that transformed his life and career.
The gospel star said the tragedy inspired his journey into broadcasting and the birth of Fresh FM.
Popular gospel musician and broadcaster Yinka Ayefele has revealed that the road accident he suffered in 1997 marked the defining moment of his life and career.
Speaking at a press conference to mark the 10th anniversary of Fresh 105.9 FM, held at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Secretariat in Ibadan, Ayefele recounted how tragedy became the foundation of his success.
He said: “I worked at Radio Nigeria Ibadan; I was into jingle production. I bought a Beetle car from the money I realized. I had a road accident on my way to Abeokuta in 1997 with the car. It was in that accident, many people know the story, that my life changed completely. That was my turning point.”
Ayefele explained that his passion for broadcasting began years later through Facebook live streaming. “It was on Facebook that I started live streaming. I started it and realized that my fans outside Nigeria appreciated it. After that, I thought that I could have a radio station, change the narrative, and at the same time change the system of broadcasting,” he said.
The gospel singer recalled his struggle to obtain a broadcasting license after being confronted by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC). “I started transmitting, then a time came that the NBC came. They bombarded my office with DSS and they said, ‘Mr Ayefele, where is your licence?’ I said, ‘Do I need a license?’ They said yes. It took me seven years before I was given the license.”
He praised his persistence and highlighted the challenges he faced during the early years of Fresh FM. “Ranti Akerele started the journey. If they investigate owners of radio stations the same way I was investigated for seven years, I don’t think most of these radio stations will exist today. I want to change the face of broadcasting,” Ayefele said.
The broadcaster also reflected on his management style, adding: “I have never sacked anyone in the last 10 years. The only one I did was that I advised the person to resign.”
Speaking further, he recalled the 2018 demolition of Fresh FM by the Oyo State Government under the late Governor Abiola Ajimobi, describing it as a blessing in disguise. “Ajimobi was the first person to expose Fresh FM to the whole world. The day it happened, it was painful. BBC called me, CNN invited me. So, it was a blessing in disguise. Ajimobi also rebuilt the station,” he said.
Ayefele also recounted how he eventually secured his broadcasting license with the help of former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife. “It was when I went to the Presidential Villa to meet former President Goodluck Jonathan and his wife asked me what I wanted. I said I want a license, and I want to thank them,” he added.
Ayefele, who began his career as a music producer before becoming a gospel icon, has since built one of Nigeria’s most successful radio networks. His story continues to inspire millions across the country as a symbol of resilience and faith triumphing over tragedy.
