“My Eyes Have Opened” — BBNaija Star Phyna Makes Heartfelt Apology Over Past Tweets

Big Brother Naija winner and reality TV star, Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, popularly known as Phyna, has set social media buzzing once again, but this time not with controversy or fiery clapbacks. Instead, the Edo-born entertainer took to her X (formerly Twitter) handle to issue a heartfelt apology to everyone who might have been offended by her past tweets, admitting that she has grown, learned, and seen life from a different perspective. The revelation, which she herself described as a moment of enlightenment, comes amid weeks of heated discussions surrounding old social media posts resurfacing and sparking outrage among fans.

Phyna, who has built a reputation for her outspoken personality both inside and outside the BBNaija house, confessed that some of the things she posted in the past were made from a place of ignorance and youthful stubbornness. Sharing the message on her verified handle, she wrote: “Omo my eyes has opened, I have seen a lot this period, all I can say is omo just hold God tight. To some tweets I’ve made in the past when I thought I knew better and to those people that got angry, omo I’m sorry oo, I’ve seen the light. Omo!!!!! If you know, you know!”

Her words quickly caught fire across timelines, with fans, critics, and fellow celebrities weighing in on the bold move. For some, it was a refreshing show of humility from someone who has often been in the headlines for her unfiltered approach to issues. For others, it was a sign of the pressures that come with fame—where every word, every joke, and every opinion can be dragged back to the spotlight years later to haunt a person.

Phyna’s journey since winning Big Brother Naija season 7 has been nothing short of eventful. From the moment she stepped out of the house as the second female winner of the show, she became a cultural talking point. Her raw, unpretentious style and street-smart confidence won her fans who saw her as relatable, but the same qualities also drew critics who tagged her as “loud” or “unpolished.” Beyond the criticisms, her social media activity has repeatedly stirred debate, with old tweets being unearthed and weaponized against her whenever public opinion shifted.

The reality star’s apology appears to be her way of closing a chapter that has haunted not just her, but many other celebrities who find themselves at the mercy of digital footprints. In today’s era of “cancel culture,” where screenshots can never be erased and old comments often resurface to test reputations, Phyna’s decision to openly admit her faults instead of denying or defending them might signal a new maturity in her public journey. Fans have pointed out that this transparency is rare in the entertainment industry, where many stars either ignore backlash or lash out at critics.

Reactions to her apology were predictably divided. Some hailed her for showing growth and humility. A fan wrote: “This is what accountability looks like. Phyna has really grown. No one is perfect, and I’m glad she can admit her wrongs.” Another X user added: “We’ve all said silly things when we were younger, the difference is ours don’t trend. She’s brave for apologizing.”

Yet, not everyone was convinced. A section of critics felt the apology might have been prompted by fear of losing brand deals or public relevance. One user argued: “These celebrities only apologize when they realize it’s affecting their bag. If nobody dragged those tweets, would she have cared?” Another echoed similar sentiments, writing: “Apology or damage control? Either way, actions speak louder. Time will tell if she has really changed.”

Despite the mixed reactions, one thing is certain: Phyna’s words carried a weight of sincerity that resonated with many who have followed her journey. The phrase “my eyes have opened” struck a chord, suggesting not just regret for the past but also a spiritual awakening. Her reference to “holding God tight” further revealed that her transformation might not only be about public image but also about personal faith and growth.

The entertainment industry is no stranger to celebrities facing backlash for old posts, with names like Burna Boy, Wizkid, and even Tiwa Savage at one point being dragged for resurfaced comments. In Phyna’s case, the scrutiny may be harsher because of her polarizing nature. But her decision to apologize voluntarily, without being cornered by a specific scandal at the moment, sets her apart from those who wait until they are forced by public pressure.

Interestingly, her post also carried undertones of resilience. While apologizing, she did not dwell on specifics or allow herself to be defined solely by mistakes. Instead, she reframed the narrative, highlighting growth and experience. The words “If you know, you know” almost sounded like a message to her loyal fanbase—those who have walked with her through the highs and lows, and understand that stardom is a learning process filled with missteps.

For Phyna, the timing of the apology could not be more critical. As a brand influencer, actress, and media personality building her career outside of BBNaija’s shadow, she needs both industry stakeholders and fans to see her in a new light. In Nigeria’s entertainment space, where reputation can make or break endorsement deals, an apology can be both an emotional release and a business strategy.

Beyond the glitz and glamour, however, her story mirrors the reality of many young people navigating the digital space. The things people post on social media today can resurface years later in completely different contexts. A harmless joke, a reckless opinion, or even an emotional outburst can be reinterpreted under new lights. Phyna’s experience becomes a cautionary tale not just for celebrities but for anyone building a future in public spaces.

Her bold step to acknowledge wrongs and seek forgiveness also opens up larger conversations about forgiveness and growth in Nigerian entertainment. Can society truly allow celebrities to evolve, or will their past forever define them? Do apologies like Phyna’s really earn redemption, or are they just fuel for fresh criticism?

What is undeniable is that Phyna’s latest move adds another layer to her complex personality—a woman who is both flawed and fierce, both vulnerable and bold. By owning up to her past, she may have not silenced her critics, but she has certainly rewritten part of her narrative. Whether or not the public grants her the redemption she seeks, she has chosen to confront her mistakes rather than run from them, and in today’s climate, that in itself is a flex.

As the dust settles, fans will watch closely to see if this apology marks the beginning of a more measured, reflective Phyna, or if the outspoken star will continue to stir storms with her personality. But for now, one thing is clear: her eyes are open, and the world is watching what she does next.