By Latiifah Amusan
In a heart-wrenching turn of events, Toluige Olokoobi Babalola, the mother behind the viral ‘Mummy Calm Down’ video, has reportedly died by suicide in Benin City, Edo state.
The video, featuring her son Oreofeoluwa Lawal-Babalola pleading with her to ‘calm down,’ garnered global attention in 2020.
The 4-year-old gained social media fame when the ‘Mummy Calm Down’ video went viral, capturing the interest of numerous, including Lagos Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu.
T Pumpy Concept Limited, an Abuja-based real estate company, later signed the young boy as one of its brand ambassadors.
The once joyous tale took a somber turn as it was revealed on social media that Toluige, who had left an indelible mark with her son’s fame, battled undisclosed personal struggles, keeping them hidden from those around her.
Leaving behind three children for her husband, including the iconic ‘Mummy Calm Down’ boy, her tragic end has sparked a wave of mourning and calls for mental health awareness.
The news was shared on the micro-blogging site X by a user named Samuel.
@sammydo214 wrote,
“The woman in the viral ‘Mummy Calm Down’ video has just committed suicide here in Benin. She refused to speak to anyone about her problems. She left behind three kids for her husband, including the popular ‘Mummy Calm Down’ boy”
Netizens are grappling with the impact of depression in the country.
Social media is flooded with condolences and reflections on the silent battles many face.
@ennyflawless wrote, “Wait what ????
What could have been the problem??
Be kind to those around you because you don’t know what they are going through”
@theelile_ wrote, “People are going through a lot.”
@thegirlbekee wrote, “Suicide as how??
Hope she wasn’t murdered and covered as suicide? Proper investigations should be conducted pls”
@thekingeve_o wrote, “People are going through tough situations. No matter what it is, please stay alive.
It is well. 🥲”
