Ibrahim Chatta Breaks Down as He Reveals He Lost First Child Due to Unpaid Hospital Bills in Lagos
Veteran Nollywood actor Ibrahim Chatta has shared a deeply emotional story that has touched the hearts of many Nigerians. The actor, known for his stellar performances in Yoruba-language films, opened up about the most painful moment in his life—losing his first child due to his inability to pay hospital bills.
In a heartfelt conversation captured in a video shared online, Chatta spoke with crew members on a movie set, recalling how he helplessly watched his daughter die at a hospital in the Iddo area of Lagos State. According to him, at the time, he was struggling financially and could not raise enough money to save her life, despite desperately trying to find help.
“Malik is not my firstborn,” the 54-year-old actor said. “My first child is a baby girl. I lost her because I couldn’t pay hospital bills. She was taken to the hospital in Iddo, Lagos. I trekked from Ijora Badia to Makoko trying to get help, but I couldn’t find any support until it was too late.”
He also shared a chilling detail that drove home the depth of his hardship: the little girl was buried in an old Coca-Cola wooden crate. “It was all I could afford,” he admitted, his voice laced with grief. The story left listeners and fans deeply moved, with many praising his courage in reliving such a personal tragedy.
This rare revelation from the respected actor highlighted the silent battles many artists face behind the cameras. Despite being a prominent face in Nollywood, Chatta’s story reveals a time of deep struggle, pain, and survival.
In the same conversation, Ibrahim Chatta addressed growing questions surrounding his absence from the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) despite his decades-long presence in the Nigerian film industry.
Although he was nominated for Best Lead Actor for his performance in House of GAA, the award went to Femi Adebayo for Seven Doors. Chatta, however, clarified that his exclusion from past nominations and wins was not due to oversight or bias, but rather a personal decision.
Speaking on the Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast, the actor explained that he has never submitted any of his works for AMVCA consideration. “I’m not praying to win something I have no interest in,” he said. “I don’t even submit my films. I’m doing this for the passion, not for awards.”
His remarks have sparked conversation in the Nigerian entertainment scene, with fans expressing admiration for his humility and dedication to his craft. Chatta’s words have not only shed light on his personal loss and silent resilience, but have also reignited appreciation for the many unsung heroes of Nollywood.
Ibrahim Chatta’s journey serves as a powerful reminder that behind the fame and screen roles lie real-life stories of struggle, sacrifice, and strength—stories that deserve to be heard and honored.
