LAGOS — Nigerian comedian and content creator MC Mbakara and his wife, Lolo, have shared an emotional account of their nine-year struggle raising their daughter, Eke Mama, who has lived with severe cerebral palsy since birth. In a heartfelt video released to the public, the couple described the traumatic events surrounding their daughter’s birth, the lifelong challenges of caring for her, and their decision to advocate for families facing similar circumstances.
The Mbakaras revealed that complications during childbirth — including prolonged oxygen deprivation — led to extensive brain damage and the later diagnosis of cerebral palsy. Lolo recounted how her labour, anticipated to be routine, quickly turned into a crisis when their newborn failed to breathe at birth. Hospital staff improvised with makeshift oxygen delivery but could not stabilise her, and by the time they reached a teaching hospital for proper care, more than 30 minutes had elapsed. That extended delay, doctors confirmed later, caused irreversible neurological damage.
Their daughter, whom they lovingly call Eke Mama, has spent the majority of her nine years in a minimally conscious state, often described as “vegetative.” According to Lolo, Eke Mama spends up to 99% of her day sleeping and has required continuous oxygen support for the first weeks of her life, followed by years of specialized care. “She has spent nearly all her life asleep,” Lolo said, her voice breaking with emotion.
The couple said they were once advised by a medical acquaintance to disconnect the ventilator to end their daughter’s suffering, but refused. “Even though we were told it might be easier to let her rest, we couldn’t bring ourselves to stop fighting,” Lolo said. “We hold onto the hope that a miracle is possible in the future.”
Despite facing years of public criticism — including accusations of hiding their child — the couple said they have maintained privacy to spare their daughter from ridicule and sensationalism. MC Mbakara noted that many Nigerians misinterpret cerebral palsy, viewing it as spiritual or hereditary rather than a neurological condition stemming from early brain injury. “We faced hurtful comments online,” he said, “but we simply wanted to protect our child and focus on her care without shame.”
To support others grappling with similar challenges, the Mbakaras have established the Aya Kanu Aya Foundation, an organisation aimed at creating awareness about cerebral palsy and providing emotional, financial, and advocacy support to families caring for children with developmental disabilities. The foundation’s message is simple yet powerful: parents are not alone, and help should be accessible.
“Many people still believe these children are cursed or bewitched instead of understanding that brain damage is the root cause,” Lolo said. “We want to change that ignorance through education and support.”
MC Mbakara also expressed deep gratitude to his mother, who has been instrumental in Eke Mama’s care. “Without her help, we would have collapsed emotionally and financially. We thank God for her strength and for giving us our daughter,” he said.
The comedian and his wife say their journey has been defined by faith, resilience and unwavering parental love. “Her condition may never be fully understood by others, but the joy she brings us is immeasurable,” MC Mbakara said. “We continue to pray for breakthroughs, and we hope our story inspires others not to lose hope.”
