Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, popularly known as Tems, has opened up about how fame has affected her ability to move around freely in Nigeria.
The Grammy-winning singer made the revelation while discussing her life after achieving international stardom. When asked whether she could still go anywhere she wanted in Nigeria, Tems pointed to the challenge of being recognised by Lagos area boys.
According to the singer, her level of visibility means she can no longer enjoy the kind of freedom she had before becoming famous. She recalled an earlier experience when she attempted to drive herself around and said she was nearly mobbed.
Tems explained that she now needs police escorts positioned both in front of and behind her vehicle whenever she wants to drive in Nigeria.
The situation, she said, has made it difficult to experience ordinary moments such as getting behind the wheel and moving around without drawing attention.
The singer’s comments highlight one of the less glamorous sides of celebrity life. While international fame has brought Tems major opportunities, it has also limited some of the everyday freedoms she once enjoyed.
She also spoke about how difficult it was initially to adjust to fame, particularly because of her naturally private personality. Tems admitted that she had to learn how to deal with public attention, rumours and increased scrutiny.
Her comments about needing security have since attracted reactions from Nigerians online, with some joking about the reality of becoming too famous to move around Lagos unnoticed, while others said her experience reflects the challenges faced by highly recognisable celebrities.
Tems’ remarks have once again sparked conversations about fame, personal freedom and the realities of celebrity life in Nigeria.
