In a candid revelation, Nigerian music sensation Tiwa Savage has opened up about her high-profile divorce from ex-husband, Tunji Balogun, known to fans as TeeBillz. This is a significant moment for the artist, who has remained relatively quiet on the details of their split since TeeBillz announced their separation on social media in 2018.
During a recent interview on The Receipts Podcast, Tiwa shared her perspective on the events leading up to their divorce, shedding light on her emotional struggles during this tumultuous time. She stressed that she didn’t cause the breakup, instead suggesting that TeeBillz made the announcement, leaving her dealing with the fallout.
At the time of the announcement, Tiwa was facing the challenges of motherhood, having just given birth to their son. She recalls: “The way our situation unfolded, he announced it online. I didn’t break up with him, but I was the one who was attacked. This statement highlights the emotional turmoil she experienced as she dealt with her postpartum recovery and the pressures of public scrutiny.
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Tiwa revealed that her life was turned upside down shortly after welcoming her child. “My baby was only a few months old at that time. My body was no longer the same because I suffered from postpartum and depression. Only a few people came to see me. Everyone went to him,” she explained. This poignant reflection highlights the loneliness she felt during a time that should have been filled with joy and support.
The public reaction to the couple’s separation added to their distress. After attempting to share her side of the story in an interview, Tiwa faced backlash from the public. “The situation got worse after I gave an interview to tell my side of the story. People were saying, “How dare you go and speak? You are a woman and you are supposed to build the house. It’s your fault,” she recalled. The weight of these accusations was heavy and Tiwa called the experience “very heartbreaking”, revealing how it affected her mental health.
Following the divorce announcement and subsequent public backlash, Tiwa made a conscious decision not to discuss the situation. “Since then, I said to myself: ‘I will never talk about the situation.’ It opened my eyes. It made me depressed and angry for so long,” she admitted. This period of reflection ultimately led to a transformation in her public persona, giving rise to the image of the “African Bad Girl”. She adopted a bolder style, sporting tattoos, bikinis and short skirts as a way to reclaim her identity.
Tiwa’s story resonates with many people, especially women who have faced similar challenges in the public eye. Her willingness to share her experience reminds us of the complexity of relationships and the impact of societal expectations on personal lives. The singer’s journey through heartbreak, public scrutiny, and self-discovery is not only relatable, but inspiring to those facing their own struggles.
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As Tiwa Savage continues to make waves in the music industry, her openness about her past is a testament to her resilience. She emerged stronger from her experiences, using her platform to connect with her fans and inspire others to accept themselves, regardless of societal pressures.
The conversation around her divorce has reignited discussions about mental health, particularly in the context of motherhood. Tiwa’s candor encourages a broader dialogue about the importance of support systems for new mothers and the need to challenge societal norms that unduly blame women in difficult times.
In conclusion, Tiwa Savage’s thoughts on her divorce from TeeBillz reveal not only the personal toll of their separation, but also the societal challenges women face. Her story is one of strength, resilience and the journey to self-acceptance, which makes her a role model for many.