Busola Oke Clarifies Social Media Live Was About Seeking Support, Not Self-Harm

Nigerian gospel singer Busola Oke, popularly known as Eleyele, has addressed recent reports suggesting she contemplated taking her own life. She explained that her recent live video on social media was driven by frustration and emotional exhaustion rather than any intentions of self-harm.

Speaking on the Talk To B Podcast, Oke revealed that the live session was her way of reaching out to friends and followers for comfort amid feelings of isolation and emotional strain. She emphasized that her aim was to feel supported, not to publicly expose her struggles.

“No, I never said I was going to commit suicide. So, I think it was a misconception, a misinterpretation,” she explained. “I was really frustrated, feeling strange and very lonely… I just wanted to see people that love me and care about me. I started talking to my friends, they reached out, shared the video, and I was grateful for the support.”

Oke also shared that she has faced ongoing personal challenges since 2020 but intentionally kept her struggles private, avoiding public sympathy or pity. She said she values authentic relationships and did not want her life to become a “subject of charity.”

“I’ve kept quiet for so long because I want people to be natural around me. I don’t like people treating me as a pity party,” she added.

Opinion: The Importance of Mental Health Awareness and Compassion

Busola Oke’s clarification highlights a broader issue that affects many public figures—how private struggles can be misinterpreted online. Social media often magnifies moments of vulnerability, sometimes turning genuine cries for support into sensationalized narratives.

Her openness is a reminder that emotional strain and feelings of isolation are human experiences, and seeking support is healthy and necessary. Misunderstandings about her live session also demonstrate the need for compassion and care in interpreting others’ actions, especially when it concerns mental health.

For fans and followers, this situation underscores the importance of empathy and responsible engagement online. Rather than jumping to assumptions, offering support and understanding can make a tangible difference in someone’s life.

Busola Oke’s experience serves as a reminder that even when people appear strong publicly, emotional challenges are real, and reaching out for connection is both natural and commendable. It is a lesson in patience, sensitivity, and the value of authentic support networks.