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Big Brother Naija star, Hermes Iyele, has revealed a deeply personal story about his upbringing, shedding light on how his family was torn apart by financial hardship.

Speaking in a heartfelt interview on the popular podcast #WithChude, the reality TV personality and performance artist shared how his mother abandoned their family after his father lost his job, leaving him and his siblings to be raised solely by their dad.

According to Hermes, his father was once a UNICEF employee and lived a relatively stable life, frequently traveling for work. However, everything changed when he lost his job. Unable to secure new employment, the elder Iyele had to resort to driving a commercial bus to make ends meet. Eyes Of Lagos reports,

“When things got bad, we moved into an uncompleted building. My mum didn’t want to come with us, so she left that night and didn’t return for seven years,” Hermes revealed.

Growing Up Without a Mother

The decision of his mother to leave the family at such a crucial moment had a lasting impact on Hermes. He admitted that her absence during his formative years affected him emotionally. Despite this, he harbors no bitterness.

“My dad raised us with love, and that’s why I still have love for my mum today. Their marriage wasn’t happy, and maybe she just did what she had to do,” he said.

This emotional maturity has drawn praise from fans, many of whom admire Hermes for choosing empathy over resentment. He explained that although the reason behind his father’s financial downfall remains uncertain, he suspects poor financial decisions may have played a role. Still, he prefers not to dwell on the past.

A Tribute to a Lost Parent

Hermes also confirmed during the interview that his mother passed away in November 2024, bringing an emotional end to a chapter marked by pain, separation, and eventual healing. While their relationship never returned to what it could have been, Hermes seems to have made peace with his past.

His story paints a picture of resilience and forgiveness, values that have helped him rise from humble beginnings to become a recognized name in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Known for his unique fashion sense, bold personality, and expressive art, Hermes has continually used his platform to speak on mental health, family, and societal issues.
Inspiring Others Through Vulnerability

This recent revelation has sparked conversations online, with many Nigerians relating to his story of family struggles and single-parent upbringing. Hermes’s honesty reminds many young people navigating similar hardships that they are not alone—and that healing is possible.

Rekyz:
Once again, Fear Women!
I know a woman close to my site who almost left her family in same manner when the chips were down. It took intervention of neighbours and several pleas before she moved in with her husband and children.
I pray she doesn't kpai the man

alphonsojaybaz:
“My Mum Abandoned Me and My Dad Due to Hardship” – BBNaija’s Hermes Opens Up on Painful Childhood


https://eyesoflagos.com/my-mum-abandoned-me-and-my-dad-due-to-hardship-bbnaijas-hermes-opens-up-on-painful-childhood/

cc: Mynd44 , Nlfpmod , Seun

alphonsojaybaz:
“My Mum Abandoned Me and My Dad Due to Hardship” – BBNaija’s Hermes Opens Up on Painful Childhood


https://eyesoflagos.com/my-mum-abandoned-me-and-my-dad-due-to-hardship-bbnaijas-hermes-opens-up-on-painful-childhood/

cc: Mynd44 , Nlfpmod , Seun

edlion57:
Una rush come blv this boy ..we no der use our head for this country

Ashirioluwa:
This must have really affected his life because merely looking at him, one can tell for sure that a woman never raised this dude.

He looks awkwardly different.

Akinpresident:
This one don lock Nigerians in emotionally.
Nigerians are the most emotional people in the world. We easily identify with anyone that looks like what we pass through everyday and make them our hero.

Na so Lekan won, White money and that nude girl. Grass to grace story and this one just hit it.

Wealthoptulent:
hmm, that GENDER !
The REQUESTER of JOHN THE BAPTIST H£AD,
SNAKE INTERPRETERS
APPLE AMBASSADOR
FIRST FAMALE BARBERS

I GREET THEE.