Popular Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Aisha Lawal has firmly refuted claims that she received a Toyota Venza as a gift from Musiliu Akinsanya, popularly known as MC Oluomo, the National Chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW).
The allegations, which surfaced in a viral video, prompted Lawal to address the controversy during an interview on the Talk to B show, where she also shed light on the true source of her wealth.
The controversy began when an NURTW leader, identified as Baba Bistijabah, alleged in a widely circulated social media video that MC Oluomo had collected a Venza from him and gifted it to the actress. The claim sparked speculation and debate online, with some questioning the nature of Lawal’s relationship with the union leader.
In her response, Lawal categorically denied the accusation, asserting that she has never driven a Venza and has no affinity for the vehicle. “I wonder if it was a setup or if the man smoked weed to claim that MC Oluomo collected a Venza from him and gifted it to me,” she said, dismissing the allegation with a mix of humor and incredulity. “I did not collect a car from him. Come on, you have to add some respect to my name because I suffered before I made money. I drive a GX 460.”
Lawal also took the opportunity to clarify her financial status, attributing her wealth to a remarkable business breakthrough during the COVID-19 pandemic. “The COVID-19 period was my turning point,” she revealed. “During COVID, I made N10 million in a week.” While she did not disclose specific details about the nature of her business dealings during that time, her statement underscores her entrepreneurial acumen and resilience during a global crisis that crippled many industries.
The actress expressed respect for MC Oluomo, acknowledging his philanthropy. “I have regard for MC Oluomo because he has done so much for people that I know,” she said, while firmly distancing herself from the car gift narrative. Her remarks suggest an attempt to maintain cordiality while addressing the controversy head-on.
The allegations and Lawal’s rebuttal have reignited discussions about the intersection of Nollywood, wealth, and influential figures in Nigeria. Social media reactions have been mixed, with some fans praising Lawal’s transparency and others questioning the motives behind Baba Bistijabah’s claims.
The NURTW, a powerful union in Nigeria’s transport sector, has not issued an official statement regarding the controversy, and MC Oluomo has yet to publicly address the allegations.
Lawal’s rise to prominence in Nollywood has been marked by her talent and versatility, with roles in numerous Yoruba-language films earning her a loyal fan base. Beyond acting, she has established herself as a savvy businesswoman, a fact she emphasized during the interview. Her assertion that she “suffered” to achieve financial success resonates with many Nigerians who view her as a symbol of hard work and determination.
WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW
Aisha Lawal, a prominent Nollywood actress and entrepreneur, has vehemently denied allegations of receiving a Toyota Venza as a gift from NURTW leader MC Oluomo, dismissing the claims as baseless and emphasizing her self-made status.
As the story unfolds, questions remain about the origins of the viral video and whether Baba Bistijabah’s claims were motivated by personal or political agendas within the NURTW.
