Efe Oghenetega
Nigerian music sensation Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, widely recognized by his stage name Iyanya, has candidly shared how fame has shaped his romantic experiences.
The award-winning artist behind the hit track “Kukere” revealed that lingering emotional scars from past relationships have kept him single at 39. He recounted instances where former partners resorted to leveraging his public image during disputes.
During a heartfelt conversation on the Afropolitan podcast, the musician detailed how these encounters left him wary of long-term commitment.
“Marriage or a serious relationship isn’t on my mind right now—I’m simply not in the right headspace. If someone’s willing to wait until I reach that point, then we can explore it together.
“Right now, maintaining commitment feels impossible. As a public figure, every time I’ve tried being serious with someone, it’s ended painfully.
“Fame attracts partners who see media exposure as leverage during conflicts. I’m just as vulnerable as anyone—you don’t spend 17 years in entertainment without forming genuine connections.
“I’ve truly loved before, but threats of public exposure during arguments became a pattern. These repeated experiences made me reluctant to commit,” he confessed.
The vocalist disclosed his current practice of celibacy as he navigates his relationship hesitations, while acknowledging the challenges of maintaining this lifestyle consistently.
