Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Yomi Fabiyi, has spoken at length about his unwavering support for Big Brother Naija Season 10 winner, Imisi, explaining that his relationship with her is rooted in mentorship, loyalty, and mutual respect. The actor made this known while addressing questions surrounding their close bond, emphasizing that his intentions toward the reality star are genuine and purely fatherly. According to him, his connection with Imisi predates her fame, and he has always regarded her as a daughter in the entertainment industry.
Fabiyi revealed that he has known Imisi for several years, long before her emergence as a household name through the Big Brother Naija platform. He recounted that their relationship started from his film academy, where she was once a student. He described her as a disciplined, hardworking, and focused individual who displayed passion and drive for acting from the very beginning. He stated that watching her grow from a student into a successful television personality brings him immense pride, as it reflects the positive impact of mentorship and consistency.
Fabiyi noted that his decision to support Imisi during her time in the Big Brother house was simply a continuation of the moral and emotional support he had always offered her. According to him, loyalty is one of his guiding principles in life, and standing by those who have once stood by him is something he takes seriously. “When you have watched someone grow from humble beginnings, it’s only natural to celebrate their achievements and success stories,” he explained. “Imisi has always carried herself with grace, and seeing her win the show filled me with joy.”
“I’m like a father to her in the industry” — Fabiyi
Expanding on his statement, Yomi Fabiyi reiterated that his relationship with Imisi is purely that of a father figure and mentee within the movie industry. He clarified that she was once his student at the Yomi Fabiyi Film Academy, where he mentors upcoming actors and filmmakers. He described her as one of the most dedicated and loyal students he ever had, noting that her hard work and positive attitude set her apart even before her Big Brother Naija success.
The actor praised Imisi for being supportive of him not only as a mentor but also on a personal level. He recalled moments when she went above and beyond to help him and his family, particularly during his housewarming ceremony, where she played an active role in ensuring the event’s success. “She has been helpful beyond the classroom,” he said. “She once lived in the same area with me in Ikorodu and has always looked out for me and my son. It’s only right I support her the same way.”
Fabiyi further explained that the entertainment industry is built on relationships and mentorship, adding that every successful star needs guidance and emotional stability along the way. He expressed pride that Imisi has continued to remain humble and respectful despite her newfound fame and described her as a shining example of how mentorship can shape a person’s path in the right direction. “She’s like a daughter to me,” he reiterated. “I’m proud to see her succeed because her journey represents dedication and humility.”
“I won’t be deterred by online critics” — actor fires back
Reacting to the controversy and mixed opinions online, Yomi Fabiyi firmly defended his relationship with Imisi, stating that he would not allow online critics or baseless gossip to distort the truth about their bond. He made it clear that his public show of support comes from a place of sincerity and mentorship, not publicity or self-interest. “People are too quick to misjudge what they don’t understand,” he said. “I have nothing to hide. I’ve always been open about my relationships with my students and colleagues.”
Fabiyi dismissed claims that his association with Imisi could harm her reputation, insisting that goodwill and support should never be misinterpreted as something else. He described his actions as a reflection of his values and moral compass, explaining that his intention is always to uplift those he believes in. “Some people have no credibility or pedigree; I don’t give them attention,” he remarked. “I know my values, and I stand by those I believe in. My conscience is clear.”
He also addressed a blogger’s recent post warning him to stay away from the BBNaija star, describing such comments as baseless and unnecessary attempts to stir controversy. The actor noted that the entertainment industry often breeds misunderstandings, especially when genuine relationships are mistaken for publicity stunts. Fabiyi maintained that he will continue to guide and mentor young talents, emphasizing that he has no reason to cut ties with anyone who respects and appreciates him. “I’ve always been an open book,” he added. “If supporting someone’s success makes me a target, then I’ll gladly take that risk.”
Fans have since reacted to Fabiyi’s statements with mixed opinions. While some applauded him for being transparent and standing by his mentee, others urged him to remain cautious in a world where intentions are often misread. Nonetheless, Fabiyi insists that he will not be deterred by negativity or online trolls. For him, mentorship is about shaping lives, guiding talent, and creating a legacy of support and growth within the industry. His bond with Imisi, he emphasized, is simply an extension of that lifelong mission to nurture the next generation of entertainers.