Nigerian socialite and businessman Eze-Nwalie Nwogu, widely known as Pretty Mike, has bravely shared his experience of childhood sexual assault.
In a recent episode of the podcast In The Company Of Men, he revealed that he was molested by two house helpers during his formative years. This disturbing revelation sheds light on the often-overlooked issue of male victims of sexual abuse.
The impact of abuse
The business mogul disclosed that he lost his virginity at the tender age of 13 due to the abuse he suffered. He emphasised that this traumatic experience significantly altered his perspective on sex and relationships. “I lost my virginity at 13 to my housemaid. Not just one, but two,” he said. His openness about such a painful subject highlights the critical need for dialogue around male sexual abuse.
Despite his difficult past, Pretty Mike expressed a desire to move forward. “Did that change my orientation about sex? Yes. Am I coming out to report it to say that something negative happened to me? I think I have decided to let it go, especially at that age,” he explained. He acknowledged that, in today’s context, a 13-year-old might be viewed as more mature than in previous generations.
A call to action for parents
In his podcast appearance, Pretty Mike urged parents to pay equal attention to their male children, just as they do to their female children. He pointed out a common oversight: many parents focus primarily on the safety of their daughters when hiring domestic workers. “I have realised that parents often consider their female children when hiring help, but what about the male child? They are all young,” he stated.
This call for awareness is particularly important. “There shouldn’t be a double standard,” he asserted. Pretty Mike’s message is clear: all children, regardless of gender, deserve protection from potential abuse. He stressed, “Look out for your kids and make sure nobody takes advantage of both the female and the male.”
Breaking the silence
His comments come at a time when conversations about sexual abuse are becoming more common. Men are increasingly encouraged to speak out about their experiences. Pretty Mike’s courage in sharing his story serves as a vital reminder that male victims exist and deserve support.
He believes that breaking the silence around male abuse is crucial for healing. By sharing his story, he hopes to inspire other men to come forward. “Men have been encouraged to come out to talk about sexual abuse and being taken advantage of sexually at a tender age,” he noted.
Understanding childhood abuse
Childhood sexual abuse can have long-lasting effects on a person’s life. Many victims carry the trauma into adulthood, affecting their relationships and mental health. Pretty Mike’s experience underscores the importance of addressing this issue openly.
For those who were victims at an even younger age, such as 6, 7, or 8, the impact can be even more severe. “For people who were taken advantage of at such a young age, it is totally wrong because they had no idea,” he pointed out. This highlights the critical need for awareness and education around the signs of abuse.
Moving forward
Pretty Mike’s story is a powerful reminder that sexual abuse can affect anyone, regardless of gender. Parents and guardians must remain vigilant and proactive in protecting their children. By fostering an environment where both boys and girls feel safe, we can begin to address this pervasive issue.
In conclusion, Pretty Mike’s brave revelation serves as a wake-up call. It encourages parents to reflect on their practices and to ensure that all children are safeguarded. His message is clear: awareness and vigilance can help prevent future abuse. In a world where conversations about such topics are becoming more normalised, it is crucial to keep these discussions alive.
As we move forward, let’s commit to listening, learning, and protecting our children, no matter their gender.
