“Fatherhood is more than paying bills” – Actor Itele says as he sends message to fathers

Nollywood actor Ibrahim Yekini, better known as Itele, has sent a message to fathers as he speaks on fatherhood.

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While sharing photos of himself bonding with his daughters from his current wife, he said fatherhood is more than paying bills; it’s about presence, protection, guidance, love, and sacrifice.

He expressed respect for all men who are showing up for their children emotionally, mentally, and physically.

“Fatherhood is more than paying bills.
Its presence, protection, guidance, love, and sacrifice. 🙏🏽
To every man showing up for his children emotionally, mentally, and physically… respect”.

In June 2022, Itele was embroiled in a deadbeat father allegation after his second wife called him out for neglecting their children. She revealed how she had been covering up for him for months because he was her kid’s father and she wanted to protect his career, and was single-handedly catering for the kids.

The actor was mercilessly dragged online and he had tendered an apology to the public and had promised to change. He claimed that he had been going through a lot medically which had eaten up his finances. The actor later reunited with his kids, and gave them a complete makeover.

On his wife’s birthday, the Koleoso producer appreciated her for standing by him, believing in him, and building a life with him. He stated that she is more than his partner; she is his safe place and home. He said she saw the struggles before the shine, believed in the vision before the victory and never left.

In an interview with his colleague, Bimpe Akintunde, Omowunmi revealed that she has been with the actor for close to 10 years, and they met when he had nothing. She recalled how her friends would mock her because of the car he was driving and noted that she stood by him because she loved him and saw his attitude and behaviour.

Omowunmi has no doubt been supportive of her husband and his career. In 2024, when he lost his AMVCA award, she consoled him, noting that every win is a win for them. She stated that for him to be among the nominees meant he was doing something good and added that he would remain her winner for life.

Last month, Itele had splashed millions on a mansion in Lekki. Sharing photos of his new mansion, he expressed gratitude to his Maker, saying it marks a key new chapter for him and that he was grateful for every step.

In a previous post, while reflecting on his struggles, he noted how he went from being overlooked to being overwhelmed, and how he grew from that boy from the hood that people once ignored. He spoke about his success and told his fans not to give up.

Speaking about his grass-to-grace story, he noted that he was just a boy from Agbado Crossing, born without a silver spoon or shortcuts, yet his dream was bigger than his environment. Itele said now he is living proof that where one starts doesn’t define where one ends.

In an interview earlier last year, he opened up on his pre-fame struggles, revealing he faced challenges that almost took his life. He recounted how he sold jewellery at Bauchi village and credited one Papa T and Femi Adebayo for helping him out.