Interview excerpts below:
Background
My full name is Tonto Charity Dikeh and I am Ikwerre from Rivers State. I was born into a close-knit family of seven. I studied Petrochemical Engineering at the Rivers State University of Science and Technology. I had a beautiful childhood because my parents did not deny me the good things of life. Memories from my childhood are dear to me and are etched in my mind. I also have a very good relationship with my parents and siblings contrary to what people want to believe.
Music
Acting is my first love and I did not abandon it to become a musician. I still act and I will continue to do so. I will not abandon singing either. In fact, I am working at becoming a better musician because I am still learning the ropes. I am currently working on releasing an album so my fans should expect nothing but the best from me. I am collaborating with a foreign artiste whose name I am not going to mention because I want it to be a surprise.
Interests
Apart from acting and music, I am also a businesswoman. I like to buy landed properties anytime I see what I like and realise I can afford it. I have produced several movies and I have gone to countless film schools through the years to hone my skills as an actress and producer. In the future, I hope to have a reality show that would give an insight into my life and the activities I am involved in.
Achievements
Any avid viewer of African movie channels would attest to the fact that three or more movies where I have featured are broadcast every day. I am an Africa Magic Viewers Choice Award winner and a regular face in Nollywood Movies. I am not one to blow my trumpet because I would rather have my works speak for me.
Controversies
Many celebrities say they don’t read comments on stories written about them on the Internet whereas they read them. I am one person who doesn’t visit blogs and websites. It’s a personal decision not to do so. I don’t even know what these blogs are called. I have a cordial relationship with all my colleagues and I have absolutely no issues with Mercy Johnson-Okojie as it was once speculated; we are all cool people.
Personality
I would say I have a great and strong personality. I love myself so much. I am not also as shy as most people think I am. I didn’t let depression eat me up. You have to fight depression and overcome it; I did and won. I started the Tonto Dikeh Foundation so I can help others conquer depression.
Love
I have not always been lucky with love and relationships but right now, I am happy I’ve found love. I have too many thoughts on marriage and I can spend an entire day speaking about it. I will marry whoever God leads me to. The inspiration behind my hit track, Sugar Rush is the fact that love conquers all.
Regrets
I have absolutely no regrets in life because I consider every experience a lesson for me. I am most thankful for the life I am living and don’t wish to be anybody but me.
Source: Punch