Olumide Akpata Opens Up as Betty Irabor Breaks Down in Tears at Launch of Chude Jideonwo’s Book
Emotions ran high in Lagos as former Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) President Olumide Akpata and veteran media personality Betty Irabor shared deeply personal moments at the launch of Chude Jideonwo’s new book, How Depression Saved My Life.
The book launch, which drew prominent figures from media, law, entertainment, and mental health advocacy circles, focused on open conversations about depression, healing, and vulnerability. The event became particularly emotional when Olumide Akpata took the stage to speak candidly about personal struggles and the silent battles many professionals face behind public success.
Akpata’s remarks resonated strongly with the audience as he reflected on pressure, expectations, and the importance of acknowledging emotional pain rather than suppressing it. Attendees described his contribution as honest and sobering, earning him a standing ovation.
A powerful moment followed when Betty Irabor, founder of Genevieve Magazine and a long-time mental health advocate, broke down in tears while sharing her own experiences. Her emotional response underscored the depth of the subject matter and the impact the book’s message had on those present.
Irabor, who has previously spoken publicly about mental health challenges, urged Nigerians to embrace openness and compassion, stressing that depression is not a sign of weakness but a human reality that requires understanding and support.
Author Chude Jideonwo, a well-known media entrepreneur and host of WithChude, explained that the book chronicles his personal journey through depression and how confronting it transformed his life. He noted that the aim of the book is to help dismantle stigma around mental health, especially in African societies where such conversations are often avoided.
The launch featured testimonies, readings, and discussions centred on healing, self-awareness, and the need for safe spaces for emotional expression. Many attendees described the event as cathartic and necessary, praising Jideonwo for using his platform to amplify mental health conversations.
Social media reactions following the event highlighted clips of Akpata’s speech and Irabor’s emotional moment, with many Nigerians commending the speakers for their courage and authenticity.
The book, How Depression Saved My Life, is expected to further spark national dialogue on mental health and encourage individuals struggling in silence to seek help and speak out.
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