Mercy Aigbe Urges African Parents to Break Toxic Cycles, Shares Personal Story

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Mercy Aigbe Urges African Parents to Break Toxic Cycles, Shares Personal Story

Nigerian actress and filmmaker Mercy Aigbe has sparked emotional conversations online after a heartfelt video showed her opening up about her parenting journey and the deep-rooted trauma common in African households.

In the clip, recorded during a public speaking engagement, Aigbe became tearful as she shared a personal story involving her daughter, Michelle. She recalled a moment when Michelle reminded her of a harsh disciplinary incident from years past.

“And I said, Michelle, I’m so sorry. You might think that the upbringing I gave you was harsh. I was harsh, I can’t lie,” she admitted in the emotional video.

“A few years ago, I sent my daughter to Canada for school. I was calling her and she didn’t pick. When she finally did, she reminded me, ‘Mommy, remember you hit a bucket on my head one day.’ And that hurt me deeply.”

Admitting to being a tough parent, she added, “I was harsh, I can’t lie. And I said, Michelle, I’m so sorry. You might think the upbringing I gave you was harsh.”

Aigbe used the moment to highlight how unresolved trauma and outdated parenting practices are often passed down from generation to generation in African families. She stressed the importance of reflection, accountability, and emotional healing.

“As African parents, we are too proud. But if I can do it — if I can apologize and have these conversations — then others can too.”

Her candid testimony resonated with many online, sparking conversations about the need for more emotional awareness and change in traditional parenting methods across African cultures.

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