Big Brother Naija Season 7 winner, Phyna Otabor, has sparked widespread conversation and mixed reactions following her recent announcement that she is officially renouncing her surname, “Otabor.” The reality TV star shared her reasons for the decision on social media, citing personal experiences and deeply rooted issues with her family as the motivation behind this drastic step.
Gistreel recalls that Phyna was previously at the center of a social media storm in 2022. The controversy erupted shortly after her Big Brother Naija victory when allegations of family abandonment surfaced online. Accusations of neglect and estrangement from her family members generated public debate, leaving fans divided over the matter.
In a new post shared on X (formerly Twitter), the Edo state-born reality TV personality detailed the reasons for her decision to drop her surname. She explained that it has been conclusively proven that she has no genuine family ties or any reliable connection to her origin. This revelation has left her grappling with emotional and personal challenges.
In her post, Phyna recounted facing mistreatment from relatives during her formative years, which she had initially overlooked due to her childhood innocence. Now reflecting on those experiences, she believes the lack of family support and connection has significantly impacted her life.
Her tweet reads: “I am publicly dropping my family surname OTABOR. It has been proven that I actually have no family and nobody knows how I came about. It’s been rough with me lately. I’m in a place where I can’t even describe how I feel.”
Phyna further added: “Growing up and the way I was tossed around relatives I should suspected, but I guess I was too young.”
Her statement has drawn sympathy and encouragement from fans and followers, who have taken to social media to share their reactions, offering words of comfort and advice to the star during this challenging time.
Reactions to Phyna’s Tweet
Update Boyz remarked, “Dem wan use billing k!ll mama and e don turn fight 😂.”
OA Sota wrote, “Oh, my dear, sometimes the heaviest questions carry the seeds of the most beautiful answers. Don’t rush it—your story is still unfolding. You’re not alone in this.”
Humu Khair stated, “Prioritize yourself, everyone will adjust! You have a great life ahead of you. Live life to the fullest, find happiness within yourself! Self-love is the best before any other thing!”
Many supporters have encouraged Phyna to focus on her personal growth, emphasizing that self-prioritization and emotional well-being should take precedence over external pressures or societal expectations. Others have applauded her for making such a bold and personal decision in the face of adversity.
See the tweet below:
Phyna’s revelation has not only reignited discussions about family dynamics and societal expectations but has also drawn attention to the challenges faced by public figures in navigating personal issues under constant public scrutiny.