“I’d Rather Stay Clear, I Don’t Want Problems in My Life” — Yemi Alade Opens Up on Why She’s Avoiding a Collaboration with Tiwa Savage

Nigerian singer and Afrobeat sensation Yemi Alade has once again stirred conversation across social media after making a candid statement about a potential collaboration with her fellow superstar, Tiwa Savage. The “Johnny” crooner, during a recent interview, made it clear that while she respects Tiwa’s artistry, she has chosen to stay away from any form of collaboration with her, citing that she simply doesn’t want unnecessary problems or drama in her life.

The comment, which quickly went viral across X (formerly Twitter), TikTok, and Instagram, has reignited the long-standing debate about the alleged rivalry between the two powerful female voices in the Nigerian music industry. Yemi Alade’s exact words — “I’d rather stay clear, I don’t want problems in my life” — sent fans and critics into a frenzy, with many interpreting it as subtle shade directed at Tiwa Savage, while others defended Yemi’s right to prioritize her peace and personal boundaries.

For years, fans have fantasized about a joint project between Yemi Alade and Tiwa Savage — two of the most successful and internationally recognized female artists from Africa. Both women have blazed their trails, breaking into global charts, performing on world stages, and carrying the Nigerian flag with pride. Yet, despite being in the industry for over a decade, the two have never shared a song or stage performance together. Their absence of collaboration has often fueled speculation of an unspoken feud, even though both singers have, at different times, downplayed the rumors.

During the interview, when Yemi was asked if she would consider working with Tiwa Savage now that both artists are focusing on more mature, international projects, she smiled briefly before responding, “I think Tiwa is a great artist. She’s hardworking and has done so much for herself and the industry. But I’m at a stage in my life where I just want peace. I don’t want to be part of anything that could cause unnecessary drama. I’d rather stay clear, I don’t want problems in my life.”

Her words may have sounded simple, but they carried a tone of honesty that immediately triggered divided opinions. While some fans commended her for being straightforward and choosing peace over popularity, others accused her of reviving old tensions and using the moment to subtly throw shade. A fan wrote, “Yemi Alade just confirmed what we’ve always known — that she and Tiwa can never work together because there’s too much competition between them.” Another added, “She said what she said. Some collaborations are not worth the stress.”

However, a few fans came to Yemi’s defense, insisting that she only expressed her personal preference and right to avoid toxic situations. “We always demand authenticity from celebrities, but when they’re honest, we attack them,” one user wrote. “Yemi simply said she doesn’t want stress — and that’s fair.”

Insiders close to the entertainment industry have hinted that the tension between Tiwa Savage and Yemi Alade dates back to the mid-2010s, during a time when both were dominating the charts and competing for similar brand endorsements and international recognition. There were even moments when fans would intentionally compare their looks, stage performances, and fashion choices. Yemi’s fiery stage energy and Tiwa’s sultry performances often placed them in direct competition in the public eye, creating an environment where even a friendly coexistence seemed strained by constant comparison.

In 2018, a viral moment further fueled speculations of rivalry when Yemi Alade liked a social media post that appeared to mock Tiwa Savage’s alleged cosmetic surgery. Though Yemi later clarified that it was a misunderstanding and not directed at Tiwa, the damage had already been done — fans took sides, and the “beef” narrative solidified. Tiwa Savage, known for her subtle responses, posted a cryptic tweet shortly after that read, “Don’t start a war you can’t finish.” The post reignited online tension between both fanbases, and from then on, a collaboration between the two became a topic that always came with raised eyebrows.

Still, both women have shown maturity over the years, avoiding direct confrontation. They’ve often been spotted acknowledging each other at events, with polite smiles and light greetings, even if the underlying frost remains visible to observers. In a previous interview, Tiwa herself had been asked about a possible collaboration with Yemi, and she diplomatically replied, “I don’t have any problem with Yemi. If the music connects and the timing is right, I’m always open to working with talented people.”

But Yemi’s recent statement seems to suggest that her perspective has evolved, and that peace now outweighs any potential benefit of a collaboration that could easily be misinterpreted or turned into gossip fodder. It also hints at the silent pressure women in the Nigerian entertainment scene face — often being pitted against one another rather than being celebrated individually.

In an industry heavily dominated by male artists, female performers like Yemi Alade and Tiwa Savage have often faced double standards. While male colleagues such as Wizkid, Davido, and Burna Boy can openly compete and still collaborate, female artists are often subjected to endless scrutiny, with their every move read as rivalry or shade. Yemi’s decision to step away from the narrative might be her way of protecting her mental health and maintaining her sense of balance amid constant media provocation.

Observers have also noted that Yemi’s recent tone reflects a broader shift in her public persona. In the last few years, she has spoken more openly about boundaries, personal peace, and emotional stability. “There was a time when everything was about proving myself,” she said in another interview earlier this year. “But now, I’ve realized that peace of mind is success too. I can’t trade that for anything.”

This latest statement might, therefore, not be an attack but an affirmation — a declaration that she is choosing calm over chaos, even if that means fans won’t get the dream duet they’ve long imagined.

Meanwhile, Tiwa Savage, who is currently on tour and has not publicly responded to Yemi’s comments, remains focused on her growing international career. She recently performed at several high-profile festivals and has teased new music collaborations with global artists. Her silence, as usual, speaks volumes — whether it’s indifference or intentional grace, fans can only guess.

The public, however, remains divided. While some are disappointed that two of Africa’s biggest female stars can’t seem to find a middle ground, others believe their individuality is what makes them powerful. As one fan commented online, “Maybe the reason we love them both is because they’re so different. We don’t need a collab — just let them shine in their own lanes.”

Yemi Alade’s statement, though simple, highlights a truth that resonates far beyond the entertainment industry: the importance of choosing peace, even when the world demands drama. In an era where every move is amplified by social media, her decision to “stay clear” might just be her most empowering one yet. Whether fans agree or not, one thing is certain — both Yemi Alade and Tiwa Savage remain unstoppable forces in the music scene, redefining what it means to be strong, successful, and unbothered in a world that never stops watching.