I Am Not From Ibadan- Veteran Actor, Muyiwa Ademola reveals

​ABEOKUTA – It was a moment of profound cultural reconnection over the weekend as the celebrated Nollywood thespian, Muyiwa Ademola, popularly known as Mr. Authentic, officially dispelled the long-standing narrative surrounding his state of origin.

​For decades, the award-winning actor and director had been widely misidentified by fans and industry stakeholders as an indigene of Ibadan, the Oyo State capital—a city where he has spent a significant portion of his professional life and carved a niche for himself as a cinematic powerhouse.

​However, choosing the prestigious atmosphere of the Lisabi Day celebration in Abeokuta on Saturday, March 28, the actor chose to “come home” in every sense of the word. Addressing the gathered crowd and cultural enthusiasts, Ademola proudly asserted his Egba heritage, effectively putting an end to years of speculation.

​“I am from Abeokuta and not from Ibadan,” the 55-year-old veteran declared to the cheers of his kinsmen.

​The declaration has since sent shockwaves through social media, with many enthusiasts of the Yoruba film industry expressing surprise, given his deep-rooted association with the “Brown Roof City” of Ibadan.

​Reflecting on his trajectory, the actor, who celebrated his 55th birthday in January, noted that his journey has been one defined by “divine grace” rather than silver spoons. Ademola recounted his humble beginnings, noting that he was not born into privilege and experienced a childhood marked by lack.

​“My story was shaped by humble beginnings, but it was transformed through divine grace. I saw years of lack, but today, I see myself as a man blessed with opportunities I never imagined possible,” he shared in a reflective post accompanying the viral video.

​The announcement has sparked a flurry of reactions online. While many Ibadan indigenes expressed a “playful heartbreak” at losing one of their most prominent ambassadors, the people of Egbaland have taken to digital platforms to celebrate the “return” of their illustrious son.

​“No matter how long a Yoruba man stays outside his state of origin, he must eventually trace his roots,” one social media user noted, echoing the sentiment of many who praised the actor for his transparency and cultural pride.

​As the dust settles on the “Ibadan boy” narrative, Muyiwa Ademola stands tall as a proud son of the soil in the Rock City, further cementing his place as a bridge between his ancestral heritage and the city that nurtured his career.