Renowned Nollywood actor Chinedu Ikedieze, popularly known as Aki, has revealed that he once struggled with suicidal thoughts due to challenges stemming from his height.
During an interview with Chude Jideonwo, Ikedieze reflected on the emotional toll of being taunted and ridiculed by his peers. However, he credited education and his mother’s unwavering support for helping him overcome those difficult moments.
He recounted a pivotal moment in his childhood when his mother took him to a hospital at the age of nine. The doctor’s words had a profound impact on him.
“I think I was sick at the time, and my mom took me to the hospital. The doctor examined me and then told her, ‘Madam, stop worrying. There is nothing wrong with him. Just ensure he focuses on his studies, goes to school, and has your support.’
“That statement stayed with me. Coming from a village background, hearing such English from a doctor made a deep impression on me. He later explained to my mother that what I had was stunted growth. I also noticed the term ‘growth retardation’ written in the medical report, though I didn’t even know how to pronounce it at the time.”
Ikedieze shared how his mother constantly reminded him that, due to his small stature, he wouldn’t be able to engage in physically demanding jobs like carrying cement or working as a carpenter. Instead, she encouraged him to focus on his education as his greatest tool for success.
Despite this support, he admitted that the bullying and name-calling took an emotional toll on him. “People mocked me. I cried so many times. The taunts were relentless, and it got to a point where I even considered ending it all,” he confessed.
However, through resilience, education, and the guidance of his mother, Ikedieze was able to rise above the challenges, ultimately building a successful career in the film industry.
