By Milcah Tanimu
Nigerian artist Tems recently opened up about the drastic changes fame has brought to her life, particularly impacting her ability to drive independently in Lagos. During her appearance on Big Boy TV, she discussed how her introverted nature made it difficult to adapt to public attention.
Tems admitted, “I am very famous at home, so I can’t really go anywhere.” She recounted a past experience where she was nearly mobbed while trying to drive herself, stating, “I almost got mobbed last year because I attempted to drive myself.” As a result, she now requires police escorts for her safety. “If I want to drive myself, there must be police behind me,” she explained, emphasizing the need for protection to feel safe while living her daily life.
The Afrobeat star reflected on her journey, admitting that adjusting to fame has been challenging. Initially, she struggled with the demands of public life, expressing a desire for solitude. “I didn’t take it well at first, the fame,” she said. Tems noted how her introverted nature made interactions with fans and her team difficult, leading her to be blunt in conversations.
She also recounted confronting individuals who spread rumors about her, saying, “When I hear someone say something about me, I would go to them and be like, ‘Do we have a problem? Are we okay?'” This approach led to a learning curve about the nuances of fame and how to navigate it effectively.
Overall, Tems’ experience highlights the complexities of managing fame while striving to maintain a sense of normalcy in her life.