Nollywood actor, Benson Okonkwo, has made a heartfelt appeal to reveal his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts. He recently shared that he is presently depressed due to how stagnant his acting career has been for years.
During an emotional interview with Punch Saturday Beats, Benson begged Nollywood producers, directors and colleagues to come to his rescue because he is tired of suffering in silence.
According to him, he cannot boast of anything despite being a Nollywood actor for more than two decades, and even if a lot of actors in his shoes won’t speak up, he is done keeping it to himself.
“I am having depression and suicidal thoughts. Please tell the world to come and save me. After 20 years in Nollywood, I cannot boast of a bag of water. There is nothing to show. A lot of actors cannot open up, but it is better I speak up than die in silence.
I am just being brave by coming out because a lot of people will not come and speak. A lot of them are in this situation, but I don’t know how to pretend. I am a very blunt person,” he said.
Benson disclosed that despite supporting popular figures like May Edochie, Tacha, Laycon and White Money, in the past, he is the one needing support nowadays.
The actor said that it has gotten to the point of depression for him, especially because he is growing older, and currently lacks the funds to even get married or start a business.
Okonkwo then admitted that he regrets dropping out of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, to pursue acting many years ago.
“I have tried everything I can; it’s just that I fail. I am growing older and I need to get married. I need to start a business and make money.
I can’t keep calm and support them alone. I supported White Money, Tasha, Phyna, Laycon, and Kelly Rae (past Big Brother Naija winners). I don’t mind if they all hear my cry now. I also supported Queen May (Yul Edochie’s estranged wife).
I have been trying to reach them, but it hasn’t been easy reaching out to them. That is why I am speaking out now publicly,” he added.
