Nigerian singer and rapper Oladotun Alade, popularly known as Dotman, has opened up about the emotional toll of relocating from Nigeria to the United States.
In a heartfelt post shared on his Instagram page, the “Star Life” crooner confessed that the decision to move abroad has left him feeling overwhelmed and filled with regret.
‘I wish I never left’ – Dotman
Dotman revealed that life in the U.S. has not been what he expected. He admitted that he has been silently battling personal struggles since relocating, and most painfully, he has not seen his children in nearly two years.
“Today, I regret ever deciding to leave Nigeria and move to the U.S. I have been struggling so much in silence. I haven’t seen my kids for about two years now,” Dotman wrote.
The statement struck a chord with many of his followers, with several fans expressing sympathy and offering words of encouragement in the comment section.
Behind the glamour of relocation
Although many view relocating abroad as a pathway to a better life, Dotman’s experience paints a different picture. The artist’s candid admission highlights the emotional challenges that can come with starting over in a new country, especially when separated from loved ones.
For Dotman, the dream of greener pastures has come at a high personal cost. While he didn’t share full details of his struggles, his message suggests that the distance from family, especially his children, has taken a heavy toll on his mental and emotional well-being.
The rising trend of celebrity relocation
Dotman’s experience adds to a growing conversation around Nigerian celebrities choosing to leave the country. In recent years, several prominent entertainers have made the move abroad, citing reasons ranging from better opportunities to concerns about security and quality of life in Nigeria.
Among those who have relocated are music stars like Asake, Eldee, and Dr. Sid. Nollywood actors and actresses, including Genevieve Nnaji, Omotola Jalade Ekeinde, Rita Dominic, and Uche Jombo, have also moved overseas. Reality TV stars like Tacha, as well as veteran actor Emeka Ike, have joined the trend.
While some of these celebrities appear to be thriving in their new environments, others, like Dotman, are revealing the not-so-glamorous side of life abroad.
Fans react with sympathy
Shortly after Dotman made the post, fans flooded his comment section with support. Many praised him for being honest about his feelings and for shedding light on the pressures that public figures often face in silence.
One fan wrote, “Your honesty is appreciated. May you find peace and be reunited with your kids soon.” Another commented, “People think life abroad is easy. Thank you for speaking your truth.”
A call for emotional honesty
Dotman’s revelation serves as a reminder that fame and international exposure do not guarantee happiness. The reality of being far from home, family, and familiar surroundings can be difficult, no matter how successful one appears to be.
In an industry where appearances are carefully managed and personal struggles are often hidden, his post has sparked much-needed conversations about mental health, loneliness, and the hidden costs of relocation.
Moving forward
It remains unclear whether Dotman plans to return to Nigeria permanently or work out a way to reunite with his children. However, his message has already made an impact, encouraging both fans and fellow celebrities to be more open about the emotional challenges they face.
For now, the singer’s words stand as a sobering reminder that even stars struggle, and that home, for many, still holds an irreplaceable place in the heart.
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