Eniola Ajao, a well-known Yoruba actress and filmmaker, has opened up about the devastating impact of fake news on her mental health, revealing that it drove her to the brink of self-harm. During a recent interview with Nollywood on Radio, Ajao candidly shared her harrowing experience with misinformation circulating on social media.
The actress described the emotional turmoil she faced, which ultimately led her to withdraw from social activities. “I almost poisoned myself because of news about me on social media that was far from true. It was the first time in my life I faced something so painful that I couldn’t eat for seven days. I didn’t go anywhere. People around me can testify to it,” she recounted, highlighting the severity of her distress.
Ajao explained that her family was deeply concerned during this challenging time. “My sisters were calling, telling me, ‘You have to do this for yourself. You don’t have to poison yourself.’ My son was reaching out to everyone, expressing that I was struggling with the online lies,” she said, emphasizing the support she received from loved ones.
This revelation sheds light on the often-overlooked psychological effects of fake news, particularly for public figures who are frequently targeted by online rumors. Ajao’s experience serves as a poignant reminder of the need for compassion and understanding in the face of harmful misinformation.
As Ajao continues to navigate the complexities of fame and public scrutiny, her story encourages a broader conversation about the responsibilities of social media users and the importance of verifying information before sharing it.