Former Big Brother Naija housemate Adekunle Olopade recently opened up about the deep personal significance of Ilebaye’s victory in the All-Stars edition of the show.
In a candid conversation with fellow housemates Kellyrae, Jeff, and Topher, Adekunle revealed the impact his actions during the “Level Up” season had on Ilebaye’s journey.
During his time as Head of House, Adekunle was responsible for nominating housemates for eviction.
Reflecting on the decisions he made, Adekunle admitted that his nomination of Ilebaye for eviction led to her early departure from the show in the third week. This contributed to a sense of guilt that lingered with him even after they had left the house.
“In ‘Level Up,’ I was Head of House, and the system back then allowed the Head of House to nominate housemates for eviction,” Adekunle explained. “Ilebaye was one of the individuals I nominated, and she left the show in the third week.” His voice carried regret as he recalled the moment.
What made his feelings of guilt even stronger was an encounter with Ilebaye after their exit from the house. “When we left the house, we were trapped in a bus as fans gathered to greet us. I remember seeing Ilebaye standing by the gate, being ignored by fans. This was someone who had been part of our journey, yet no one seemed to acknowledge her. I felt guilty because I was the one who had nominated her for eviction, leading to her exit. Seeing her dismissed like that left a lasting impact on me.”
Adekunle admitted that witnessing Ilebaye being overlooked by fans, despite her significant presence on the show, made him reflect on the consequences of his decision. “It hurt me to see her being overlooked. She was someone who contributed so much during the show, yet it felt like her time in the house was forgotten.”
However, Adekunle shared that seeing Ilebaye return for the All-Stars season brought him a sense of relief and joy. “When we came back for the All-Stars season and I saw her, I was filled with happiness. Seeing her win made everything feel complete for me.”
The All-Stars edition brought a sense of redemption, not just for Ilebaye but for Adekunle as well. “Ilebaye’s win in the All-Stars is personal to me. I’m genuinely happy that she won, and here’s why,” Adekunle said. “In ‘Level Up,’ I was Head of House, and our season was different. The Head of House nominated the housemates for eviction. Ilebaye was part of the people I mentioned, and she left in the third week.”
![BBNaija All-Star winner Ilebaye and Adekunle [Photo Credit: Google]](https://newdailyprime.news/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/adekunle.jpeg)
This acknowledgment of his past actions added depth to his gratitude for Ilebaye’s victory. “When we left the house, we were trapped in a bus because fans wanted to greet us. Then Ilebaye was standing by the gate, and people were walking past her. This was someone who was with us on the show. I felt guilty because I was the one who put her up for eviction and she left. Seeing her dismissed like that left a lasting impact on me.”
Adekunle’s journey back to the All-Stars season was marked by a sense of hope and redemption. “When I saw her during All-Stars, it felt like everything had come full circle. I was happy to see her back, and even more thrilled to witness her win.”
In reflecting on his past actions, Adekunle emphasized the importance of growth and redemption. “At that time, I was just focused on the game, not realizing the impact of my decisions on others. Seeing Ilebaye’s strength and resilience in returning and winning made me understand the value of second chances.”
The All-Stars season, for Adekunle, was not just about competition but also about reconciling with past mistakes. “Ilebaye’s victory means more than just a win. It’s a reminder that people deserve to be recognized, not just for what they’ve contributed, but for the second chances they earn.”
Ultimately, Adekunle expressed his joy at witnessing Ilebaye’s triumph, as it symbolized a personal journey of reflection, growth, and the power of redemption.
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