Temmie Ovwasa, previously known as YBNL Princess, recently shared that publicly acknowledging her queer sexuality had a detrimental effect on her music career in Nigeria.
The singer made this revelation on the latest episode of Doyin’s Corner podcast, hosted by former Big Brother Naija housemate, Doyinsola David.
Ovwasa disclosed that many of her colleagues turned against her after she revealed her sexual identity, causing her to experience a great deal of backlash. She stated that some even suggested that she find a boyfriend to cover up her sexuality and its potential impact on her career.
“The person wanted me to get a boyfriend to cover up for my career. I mean, it’s career suicide; what I did is a career suicide. I’m very aware of it,” she explained.
The Nigerian music industry, like many other industries in the country, is known for its conservative and homophobic attitudes. It is rare for any musician to publicly acknowledge being gay or queer without fear of significant retaliation or rejection from audiences, critics, and fellow musicians.
Ovwasa became famous in 2015 as the first female artist to sign a recording contract with the Nigerian music label YBNL Records. She left the label in 2020 after disagreements with its CEO, Olamide.
That same year, Ovwasa made history by releasing the first openly gay album in Nigeria, titled ‘E be like say dem swear for me’.
While the singer’s career has undoubtedly been impacted by the revelation of her sexuality, she has also received immense support from members of the LGBTQ+ community in Nigeria and beyond.
Ovwasa’s bravery in coming out and standing by her truth is a revolutionary act in an industry where conformity is often expected. It remains a challenge for queer individuals to exist safely and openly in Nigeria, where a 2014 law criminalizes same-sex relationships.
Despite the pushback she has received, Ovwasa has decided to live her life authentically and without fear and encourages others to do the same.
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