Grammy Award-winning Nigerian singer Temilade Openiyi, professionally known as Tems, has officially debunked ongoing speculations regarding a potential romantic interest in Super Eagles goalkeeper Maduka Okoye. The “Free Mind” crooner set the record straight during a recent interview at the BET Awards, clarifying her stance on dating within the Nigerian entertainment and sports circles.
Tems Clarifies Her Stance on Dating Nigerian Celebrities
Addressing the rumors head-on, Tems explained that she views her male contemporaries in the Nigerian industry through a purely platonic lens. According to the singer, the bond shared among Nigerian public figures is more akin to a household than a dating pool, emphasizing that she sees them as family.
“We friend each other and we are family. I see my male colleagues as brothers,” she remarked, shutting down any narrative of romantic pursuit.
“We Don’t Do That Over Here” — Tems on Maduka Okoye
When asked directly about the rumors surrounding herself and the professional footballer, Tems admitted she admires him from afar but clarified they do not have a personal relationship. She humorously added that while she knows of his career, she has never tried to “shoot her shot” at the goalkeeper.
“I know who Maduka Okoye is, but I don’t know him personally. I wish I did, though. But shooting shots at him, we don’t do that over here,” Tems clarified, putting an end to the internet gossip.
Tems’ comments highlight her desire to maintain professional boundaries and sisterly relationships with her peers as she continues her meteoric rise on the global music stage.