“I Wish I Never Left Nigeria”: Rapper Dotman’s Painful Confession Sends Shockwaves Through Fans

In a heart-wrenching confession that has sent ripples across social media, Nigerian rapper Dotman has opened up about the hidden agony behind his decision to relocate to the United States. The artist, known for hits like Akube and Enugbe, took to Instagram to share a deeply personal message, expressing profound regret for leaving Nigeria in pursuit of what he once thought would be a better life abroad.

"Today I regret ever deciding to leave Nigeria and move to the USA," he wrote. "I have been struggling so much in silence. Haven’t seen my kids for about two years now. I am grateful to God that I am alive still, but I wish I never moved out here honestly."

The post, which was signed with the hashtag #peace, reflected the weight of emotional exhaustion that Dotman has clearly carried in solitude for a long time. While many fans were initially shocked by the post, the comment section quickly became a flood of support, prayers, and shared experiences from others in the diaspora who could relate to the harsh realities behind the glittering promise of life abroad.

Dotman’s words struck a raw chord. For years, there has been an almost sacred belief among many Nigerians that “japa”—the popular term for leaving the country in search of greener pastures—is the ultimate dream. In a society plagued by economic instability, political dysfunction, and soaring youth unemployment, the idea of relocating to the United States or Europe has become synonymous with success, freedom, and a better future.

But Dotman’s post pulled back the curtain on the painful flip side of that dream: isolation, separation from loved ones, cultural dislocation, and the hidden mental toll that comes with starting over in a foreign land. It was a rare moment of vulnerability from a celebrity whose image, like many others, is often curated to showcase only the glamorous aspects of life abroad.

The artist didn’t give details about the exact nature of his struggles, but the message was clear—his move to the U.S. came at a higher emotional cost than he had anticipated. His confession about not seeing his children for two years hit particularly hard, offering a glimpse into the cruel sacrifices that often accompany immigration decisions. For many in his shoes, maintaining legal status, working long hours to survive, and navigating a foreign system while trying to keep a family together can become a near-impossible juggling act.

Social media reacted quickly. Fans, fellow artists, and mental health advocates rallied around Dotman, urging him to hold on and sharing similar stories of difficulty and endurance. A few voices, however, criticized him for appearing ungrateful for the opportunity to live in the U.S., a response that further ignited conversation around the myths and realities of migration.

"This is not about gratitude," one fan wrote on Twitter. "Dotman is speaking from a place of pain. We glamorize 'japa' too much and don’t talk enough about the loneliness, the racism, the grind, and how many people actually break under the pressure. This is real."

Dotman’s message also serves as a cautionary tale for thousands of young Nigerians currently working tirelessly to relocate, often spending millions on visa applications, tuition, and travel. For some, his words are a wake-up call to do deeper soul-searching before making such life-altering decisions. For others, it’s a reminder to extend grace and compassion to those abroad, who might look fine on the outside but are privately falling apart.

Born Olatunji Oladotun Alade, Dotman broke into the Nigerian music scene in 2016 with the viral hit Akube, a street anthem that catapulted him into fame. Over the years, he built a solid fanbase with songs that blended Afrobeat rhythms with relatable, down-to-earth lyrics. Known for his cool demeanor and thoughtful lyricism, Dotman kept much of his personal life out of the public eye—until now.

His recent confession isn’t just a cry for help—it’s a mirror reflecting the silent battles so many endure. Celebrities are often dehumanized, expected to perform, smile, and succeed no matter what they’re going through. But moments like this remind us that fame does not shield one from pain, homesickness, or emotional breakdown.

It remains unclear what Dotman’s next steps will be—whether he plans to return to Nigeria, seek professional help, or simply take a break from the public eye to heal. Whatever he chooses, fans across the globe are sending messages of hope, urging him to stay strong, and expressing gratitude for his honesty.

One commenter put it simply but powerfully: “Thank you for saying the truth, Dotman. Your words will save someone today. Please don’t give up.”

In a world that often demands resilience at the cost of emotional well-being, Dotman’s message is a reminder that it’s okay to admit when life gets too heavy. It’s okay to pause. It’s okay to miss home. And most importantly, it’s okay to speak out—because silence, especially in pain, can be far more destructive than any external struggle.

As more and more Nigerians continue to pursue life outside the country, Dotman’s story will likely remain a touchstone in conversations about migration, mental health, and the hidden cost of chasing dreams. The truth is, not everyone who leaves comes back fulfilled. Some come back broken, and others never find home again.

For now, Dotman’s fans can only hope that he finds peace—whether that means staying in the U.S., reuniting with his kids, or returning to the place he now wishes he never left. His courage in speaking out has already begun a much-needed conversation. One that, hopefully, will encourage more honesty, more support, and more awareness around the emotional realities of life abroad.

Dotman’s story is a reminder that even stars can dim in the dark. But with the love he’s receiving now, there’s hope that his light will shine again—stronger, wiser, and more grounded than ever before.