Veteran Nollywood actor Ebun Oloyede, popularly known as Olaiya Igwe, has opened up about a decision he says remains one of his biggest regrets — refusing to lend gospel singer Tope Alabi his car for her wedding.

Speaking during Tope Alabi’s 55th birthday celebration, Olaiya recounted how the incident happened years ago after he had just purchased a Mercedes-Benz V-Boot, which he proudly branded “Ololade Mr Money 1” following the success of one of his films.

According to him, Tope Alabi had approached him to request the car for her wedding, and he initially consented. However, fear made him withdraw the offer at the last minute.

Olaiya explained that a recent traumatic experience — where the same car was stolen while he was promoting a movie in Ibadan — left him anxious and overly protective of the vehicle. Although the car was later recovered, the event made him fearful that something similar could happen again.

“A day before the wedding, I stopped picking her calls and didn’t give her the car,” he recalled. “It wasn’t out of malice, but fear. I had just bought the car, and I didn’t want to lose it.”

He added that he has long sought forgiveness from the singer, noting that life has taken different turns since then — with Tope Alabi now blessed with several luxury cars, while he struggles to afford one of similar class.

Reflecting on the incident, Olaiya advised younger entertainers to make thoughtful decisions and avoid acts that could lead to lifelong regret.

Meanwhile, Tope Alabi recently marked her 55th birthday, where she received a Lexus SUV gift from her husband, Soji Alabi.