I once squatted in Yemi Alade’s house – Nancy Isime

Nancy Isime has opened up about a touching chapter from her early career, revealing how singer Yemi Alade once gave her a place to stay when she had nowhere else to go.

In a heartfelt post, Nancy shared how she started working at 17 as a model and usher, often struggling to get home after late jobs in town while her family lived far away in Ikorodu. She recalled nights spent sleeping on chairs, rugs, or even walking back home at 2 or 3 a.m., with her father anxiously checking in and her brothers trying to meet her halfway.

She described that phase of her life—between ages 17 and 19—as a constant hustle for where to sleep, made even tougher by her fierce independence:
“Yes, my family was worried, especially my dad, but I’m a dangerous gyal and it’s best to let me figure out life my way… else the rebellion is quite rebellious. I must confess I’m a full-blooded Esan woman; our stubbornness is from above.”

Nancy then revealed how Yemi Alade stepped in during this difficult period. After meeting through a mutual friend, Nancy called Yemi one day and asked if she could crash at her off-campus accommodation. Without hesitation, Yemi agreed.

“I stayed for weeks and this woman NEVER EVER complained. In fact, the peace was too much—I had to leave even when I wasn’t ready to.”

Eventually, Nancy was able to rent her own place in the same building after gaining university admission, and the bond between the two women continued to grow.

“Many years later, I still have the softest spot for Yemi and will eternally be grateful to her. Allowing me to squat with her wasn’t what stood out—I squatted with other people too—it was the attitude, consideration, and the peace!”

Nancy ended the post with a tribute to Yemi:
“My Padi @yemialade, I dey for you for life!”