Reality television star and actress Ijeoma Josephina Otabor, widely known as Phyna, has directly addressed the swirling rumours of a romantic involvement with popular content creator Kolu. The speculation, which ignited across social media and livestream platforms in early January 2026, has been firmly dismissed by the former Big Brother Naija winner.
The Source of the Dating Speculation
The rumours gained momentum after several joint appearances by Phyna and Kolu on the livestreaming platform Twitch. Viral clips from these streams captured moments of apparent intimacy, including Kolu giving Phyna a kiss on the forehead, the pair holding each other's arms affectionately, and engaging in playful, soft-spoken banter. Fans and viewers quickly interpreted these interactions as clear signs of a budding romance, leading to days of intense online discussion and speculation about their relationship status.
Adding significant fuel to the fire was a playful claim made by fellow entertainer and Kolu's frequent collaborator, Carter Efe. During a separate stream, Carter Efe suggested that Kolu had purchased a brand-new car for Phyna out of love. This assertion seemed to provide tangible 'evidence' of a deeper connection, further convincing many followers that the relationship was real.
Phyna's Candid Clarification and Strict Boundary
Setting the record straight during a recent livestream of her own, Phyna described the entire episode as a case of lighthearted content being misinterpreted. She emphasized that the chemistry witnessed by viewers was purely for entertainment and carried no romantic undertones.
"I have told Kolu to stay away from me, so when next you see us together that means he has agreed to be friends," Phyna stated unequivocally. She clarified that she has issued a clear ultimatum to the content creator: any future public interaction between them would signify that Kolu has accepted a strictly platonic friendship. She humorously added that if Kolu had been misbehaving, Carter Efe would have been quick to discipline him.
Addressing the car gift rumour specifically, Phyna reaffirmed the narrative later provided by Kolu himself. She insisted that no gifts, secret romance, or hidden affection were involved, explaining that Kolu's car purchase was related to his personal journey following a heartbreak, and had nothing to do with her.
Broader Reflections from a BBNaija Star
This incident prompted Phyna to share broader reflections on life after the reality show that made her famous. During the Twitch livestream, she revealed why she no longer encourages people to audition for Big Brother Naija. She explained that the intense fan excitement and attention lavished on housemates during the season is often short-lived.
According to Phyna, fans frequently recycle their loyalty, shifting focus to new contestants each subsequent season. This phenomenon leaves many former housemates struggling to maintain their influence and relevance once they leave the spotlight of the house, a reality she described as a difficult adjustment.
In related news, Phyna also used the platform to express her readiness to end a long-standing online disagreement with Afrobeats superstar Davido. She revealed that nearly two years after their heated exchange, time and maturity have shifted her perspective. She now believes a proper conversation could help resolve the misunderstanding, showing a desire to move past old conflicts.
The clarification from Phyna, published on January 12, 2026, appears to have put the intense dating rumours to rest, redirecting the narrative back to her career insights and personal growth post-BBNaija.
