Popular Nigerian Nollywood actor, Ibrahim Yekini, widely known as Itele, has spoken candidly about his long-standing relationship with fellow actress Ariyo Oluwakemisola Apesin, popularly called Kemity, describing her as his first protégé and a pillar of support during his struggling years.
Speaking in an interview with Oyinmomo TV, Itele disclosed that Kemity was his first student in the movie industry and served as his apprentice for between eight and ten years. He praised her as a passionate, hardworking and resilient individual, noting that those qualities were what he valued most in people.
The actor recalled that Kemity believed in him at a time when success was uncertain and stood firmly by his side through difficult periods. According to him, she showed unwavering trust that his fortunes would eventually change.
Itele also shared personal moments from their early days, revealing that Kemity often supported him financially. He said that when he received invitations to social events but lacked money, she would give him cash to spray, noting that although he had recognition at the time, financial stability was still lacking.
Reflecting on Kemity’s birthday celebration in July, Itele said their journey together had been marked by trials and triumphs, adding that they emerged stronger. He publicly expressed gratitude to her for standing by him when he needed support the most.
In 2023, when Kemity announced her engagement, Itele openly celebrated the news, describing it as a joyful and fulfilling way to end the year. He congratulated her warmly, expressing happiness that someone had taken his “daughter.”
However, Kemity later revealed that the engagement ended. She explained that her former fiancé wanted them to have a child together, a request she declined due to her career being at its peak. She also cited medical concerns, disclosing that both she and her ex-partner share the AS genotype.
In the same interview, Kemity addressed public criticism surrounding her having two children with different men. She revealed that the father of her first child was her first intimate partner, who was later killed in a hotel after returning from Malaysia. She said his death left her a widow, a loss that deeply shaped her life journey.
The revelations have sparked widespread reactions among fans, shedding new light on the personal sacrifices, struggles and resilience behind the public lives of the two Nollywood stars.