Nigerian actress and filmmaker Mercy Aigbe is trending online after a heartfelt video surfaced, showing her opening up about her parenting journey, childhood trauma, and the need for healing among African families.

Speaking at an event, Aigbe tearfully recalled a past experience with her daughter, Michelle, who once reminded her of a time she was physically harsh during her upbringing.

“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.”

Aigbe explained how the incident made her reflect on how unresolved trauma and harsh parenting styles are often passed down through generations in African homes. She emphasised the importance of having closure, paying attention to children’s emotional needs, and breaking toxic cycles.

“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.”