Nigerian singer Iyanya Onoyom Mbuk, popularly known as Iyanya, has called on the public to show more empathy towards celebrities, reminding fans that fame does not protect them from emotional or mental struggles.

In a heartfelt post shared on X (formerly Twitter) on Sunday, the Your Waist crooner reflected on the pressures that come with living under constant public scrutiny, describing fame as “a double-edged sword.”

“We need to understand that celebrities are human, with deep emotions and struggles like everyone else,” he wrote.
“Beyond the glamorization is simply a person wishing to be human like the rest of us.”

Iyanya further noted that male celebrities often face even greater challenges due to societal expectations that discourage emotional expression and vulnerability.

“For male celebrities, it is always difficult to bounce back after hitting a low point because men are wired to be stoic and not show vulnerability—not to ask for help for fear of being seen as weak,” he added.

The singer’s message has resonated with many fans and fellow entertainers, sparking renewed conversations about mental health awareness and emotional well-being within Nigeria’s entertainment industry.