Exclusive: I was sexually abused at age 10 – Benson Okonkwo

Benson Okonkwo, fast rising Nollywood actor needs no introduction. He has been in the news for quite a while because of the gay movies he featured in; hence, he was automatically labelled a gay. However, he has taking time to clarify the issue in different interviews.

Well, that is not what is new. In an exclusive chat with www.angeladaviesblog.blogspot.com Benson opened up that he was sexually abused when he was 10 years old. “I have gone through a lot in the past and that is what has made me the Benson Okonkwo many love and respect today in the industry. I was sexually abused at the tender age of 10 by my 35 years old neighbour simply called Aunty Amaka, a lady who I love and respect.

She took advantage of me on that fateful afternoon after luring me with sweets and biscuits. She stole my innocence and ever since then I have been haunted by that hurtful memory. That's why I put passion into my acting career because its takes away my pain,” he revealed.

Did he inform anybody about the sexual abuse? His response was, “What did I know at that tender age of 10? I just told our gateman and that was it.”

Why talk about it now? He stressed, “It is bothering me. I know I cannot turn back the hands of time and the memory will live with me but talking about it now will definitely relieve me and I will be fine. I want to advise parents to be watchful and careful about people they leave their children with or who their children spent time with. It is very important.”

He also used the opportunity to thank his fans for their support. “I want to tell my fans that I love them. I also want to thank them for being supportive all this years and for voting for me in the Sexiest Face in Nollywood. They should keep the vote coming.”

The Enugu based actor has featured in over 30 movies and still counting.