Popular content creator, Mr Macaroni has revealed that he incurred more than N500 million in debt after falling into a scam and a failed investment.
He said his precarious financial situation, commencing in 2021, was worsened by his financial recklessness and unbridled generosity.
“Sometime around 2021/2022, I was victim of a scam and simultaneously a failed investment that cost me all I had saved at the time. It shook me deeply but I told NO ONE about it,” he revealed.
He said his professional training in theatre helped him to conceal his struggles from the outside world, revealing that his situation worsened after he borrowed some money to meet some financial obligations.
“After I lost all the money I had then, trouble started when I had to borrow money from different sources to settle all pending commitments and also fulfill certain responsibilities i have always believed were mine to fulfill.
“I make money in millions so I never thought borrowing money to pay back with interests could ever be a problem.
“But I got too comfortable and it took me a long time to realise that I was using the money I was earning to pay back interests.
“Also, my financial recklessness did not help. Please don’t borrow money! But if you must, please be responsible,” he said.
He added, “I’m not perfect. I try to be as honest as possible. I am a financially reckless person. I know it. My family and friends have always said it. And this is way before fame. This is how I have been for as long as I can remember.”
Mr Macaroni, a well-known philanthropist, blamed his unbridled generosity for part of his financial woes.
“I would give out my money for lunch to someone who didn’t have breakfast, forgetting that I would go hungry when it’s time for lunch. If you are like me, please learn to share your breakfast and keep your money for lunch,” he stated.
The actor-cum-comedian disclosed that he experienced a turning point in 2024.
“2024 was a turning point for my acting career. Two of the films I featured in were screened at international festivals. My performances in some other films released last year also earned me numerous commendations.
“However, It was also the most troubling year for me. I was burdened every single day and night knowing that I was over half a billion in debt. The last straw was when I was betrayed by someone whom I have always loved as a friend and sister. She betrayed my trust, love and confidence and for that I was completely destabilised,” he stated.
“I hardly trust people and nothing really surprises me about the actions of we humans but this one, I could never have prepared for. Such was the level of trust and love. But you see, one thing about me is that I’m a warrior! I have never backed down from a fight. When I fall, I bounce back even stronger by God’s grace and I keep my head up.
“So I gathered myself, and made some very tough decisions and with the help of family and friends who have stood by me, I feel better than I have felt in the last 3 years!”
Mr Macaroni encouraged those facing similar situations not to despair.
“So this letter of love is for my people going through whatever. Please DO NOT GIVE UP!
People will betray you but you must not let that derail you. You are alive for a reason. And every day of your life, you must fight to be a better person than you were yesterday.
“You must also be accountable, seek help and make better decisions,” he said.
