Inetimi Alfred Odon, popularly known as Timaya, the Port Harcourt based Nigerian singer on Sunday said he was used as a sex toy by a much older woman while he was struggling as a young man in the garden city.
Timaya told the Punch that he was frequently called upon by the lady to service her sexually in exchange for food and roof over his head.
“I learnt that to succeed in life, I had to stay passionate about my dreams, never settle for less and keep working hard every day.
“Most importantly, I learnt to believe that God makes everything possible in good time. I have been through a lot of things in life, and if I begin to share my story, you will be shocked.
“I was born into a fairly comfortable family but I was a rebel and I often ran away from home. I once lived in Port Harcourt with a woman who was older than me and she used me like I was a sex toy.
“I had to service her whenever she had the urge in exchange for food and a roof over my head.
“However, I have always dreamed big. Despite my travails, I never let go of my aspirations while believing that one day, I would make it big.”
When asked about his use of vulgar words in his songs, Timaya explained that it is what Nigerians want and love to hear.
“I do those types of songs because that’s what people really want. Some people criticise those songs, but they have millions of views and downloads online within a short period.
“We really should stop deceiving ourselves. Like I said earlier, I sing about a variety of things.
“Music is a money-making business, so I always consider what people want to hear and give them priority. That’s what fetches me money.” He added.