Ibrahim Chatta Biography, Career, Family, Net Worth, More

IBRAHIM CHATTA: A JOURNEY THROUGH LIFE, CAREER AND FAMILY

Ibrahim Abiodun Chatta, popularly known as “Chatta Lord Thespis”, is a multi talented star and legend, who has left an indelible mark in the Nigerian Film Industry widely recognized as Nollywood. He is an actor, singer, songwriter, movie director and producer, with a career spanning several decades.^[1] Chatta, who has starred in over 100 Yoruba and English-language films, has not only impressed with his exceptional ability to play a wide range of roles in them but has also made distinct headlines with his accomplishment. But how did he get to where he is today? Let’s take a look at the personal life and career of Ibrahim chatta.

Ibrahim Chatta’s Biography

Ibrahim Chatta was born on October 14th, 1970, in Bachita, a town in Edu local government in Nigeria’s Kwara State. Contrary to different sources claiming his date of birth to be October 14, Chatta took to his Instagram page on October 14, 2023 to celebrate his birthday.^[2] 

Photo Credit: @ibrahimchatta_lordthespis: Instagram

His family was Muslim comprising 3 wives and 14 children, including him.^[3] There has been some confusion about his ethnic background, but he is actually of the Nupe ethnic group, though his mother was from a Yoruba town, modakeke in Osun state. He recently updated his bio on Instagram as “proudlyNupe”.^[4] According to Chatta, his father was a significant figure in his life. He also claimed his mother was a strong influence in his life, he often credits her for his success, but has since passed away, as has his father in 2018.

As a child, Chatta loved watching TV and developed a keen interest in acting. He performed in local plays at his secondary school and made sure to attend every show, when a theater group performed in his town. This inspired him to strongly follow the path of acting.

Ibrahim Chatta’s Educational Background

Ibrahim Chatta, like most prominent persons, quitted school as a secondary school student without getting a certificate of completion of secondary school, although his father, who he described as a lover of education, wanted him to complete his education. Chatta attended Saint Bridges Catholic primary school for his primary education, of which he proceeded to Government Secondary School, Bachita, Edu local government Kwara state. Because of his unmanageable behavior, he was relocated to Dende Secondary school Aggiea, Niger state, where he dropped out at third grade.^[5] He recently commented that peer pressure, and his attraction to everything new as a young boy was the reason why he couldn’t further his education. Despite this, Chatta never considered dropping out of school, a limiting factor to pursuing his dream acting career, rather he worked really hard to learn a lot on his own.^[6]

In 2018, Chatta commented on his decision to go back to school and become a professor before he dies, though it is not known whether he had earlier attended a school or he is still a student. In a recent interview in 2020, he mentioned enrolling in a college of education in Ikire, Osun state.^[7]

How did Ibrahim Chatta Rise to Stardom?

Chatta’s dropping out from school never stopped him from chasing his dream of becoming an actor, though the journey was not as easy as he envisioned. Chatta commented, “…Since I was a child, I wanted to become an actor, but had no idea that it would take so much…”  and in order to face the hard times he faced, he undertook various odd jobs.^[6]

His acting journey started in 1985. When he was 15 years old Under the guidance of Joseph Laoye.^[8] He began to undertake roles to act on stage. He was a member of local drama groups in his town, which staged a number of well-known plays. His time on stage helped to sharpen his acting skills and confidence. His hard work paved ways for him as he began to gain better roles in the Yoruba movie industry, which is one of the major movie industries in Nigeria. 

In 2012, Chatta came to limelight, after playing a supporting role in the movie “Aiyekooto” directed by Adebayo Tijani and produced by Sharafadeen Olabode.^[6][9] He acted alongside notable actors like Dele Odule, Muyiwa Ademola, Femi Adebayo, Wale Akorede, Afeez Eniola and Bisi Komolafe.^[9] His performance in the film earned him critical acclaim and several awards. This marked the beginning of his successful career’s in Nollywood and made him a household name in Nigeria.

Chatta’s rise to stardom was marked by his hard work and persistence. He gradually graduated from supporting roles to lead roles, acting exceptionally in every role he is given. His ability to effortlessly switch between roles, whether it is drama, comedy or romance, pronounced his versatility as an actor.

Ibrahim Chatta’s Acting Career

Chatta has graced the screens in over 100 movies as an actor, movie director and producer leaving a deep-rooted mark on audience and critics alike. His impressive body of work includes a wide range of films, including:

• Olokiki Oru: The Midnight Sensation (2019), a 180 minutes show on action, crime and drama, where he played the role of “Ayero”, directed by Seun Olaiya and produced by Ayuba Sodunke. He acted alongside notable actors like Lateef Adedimeji, Idowu Adenekan, Murphy Afolabi, and Fatai Adetayo.
• President Kuti (2021), a drama, he played the role of “Apoti Waidi”. Directed by Tope Adebayo and produced by Ibrahim Yekini. He acted alongside Afeez Abiodun, Adeyemi Abisi, Light Aboluwodi, and Bimbo Adebayo.
• King of Thieves (2022), a 108 minutes show on action, drama and fantasy, where he played the role of oguntade, directed by Tope Adebaayo and produced by  Adebayo Tijani. He made appearances alongside prominent actors, Toyin Abraham, Femi Adebayo, Azeez Adebowale and Lateef Adedimeji.
• October 1 (2014), a 148 minutes film on crime, drama and mystery, directed by Kunle Afolayan. He shared the stage with Sadiq Daba, Kayode Olaiya, Ademola Adedoyin and David Bailie.
• Jankariwo (2021), A film on drama and fantasy. He played the role of “Abigun” directed by Ibrahim Yekini. He acted alongside Nollywood stars, Femi Adebayo, Abiodun Adebanjo, Biola Adebayo and Abiola Abdulgafar.
• Jagun Jagun (2023), a 133 minute drama on history. Chatta made an appearance that raised questions and suspense in the audience just before the movie ended, he described it as an urgent domestic call, yet he did not falter. Directed by Tope Adebayo and produced by Adebayo Tijani. Notable Nollywood stars like Femi Adebayo, Tope Adebayo, Lateef Adedimeji and Adebowale Adebayo also starred in the movie.
• Oronro (2018), a 65 minutes drama, where he played a lead role as “Paul”, directed by Okiki Afolayan. He acted alongside notable Nollywood actors, Funmi Bank Anthony, Yinka Alabi and Adediwura Adesegha.^[9]

Ibrahim Chatta has also successfully directed and produced several Yoruba films, including, “Olokiki Oru: The Midnight Sensation (2019)”, “Odun Baku (2006)”, “Oje Laye (2021)”, and “Mafi Wonmi (2008)”. Chatta’s recently released the movie he wrote, directed, and produced, “Osoronga” also known as The Witches in January 23, 2023. He also starred in the movie, playing the role of Enitan. He acted alongside, Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Bimbo Akintola, and Fathia Balogun.^[10]

Ibrahim Chatta Nomination and Awards

Chatta has won several awards for his acting, directing and producing work. He recently declared his interest in winning an Oscar award after being snubbed at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award, AMVCA 9th Edition. He said, “I always thought my work wasn’t good enough, but I see my younger colleagues who score an invite to the event. I don’t want any award to limit me, because I am aiming for the Oscars.If I am focusing on not being nominated at AMVCA, I can lose focus”.^[11][12] Some of his awards include:

• City People Movie Award for Best Actor of the Year (Yoruba) (2019).^[13]
• Best of Nollywood Awards for Best Actor of the Year (Yoruba) (2013).^[14]
• Dallas International Yoruba Movie Award for the Best Actor of the Year (Yoruba) (2021).^[15]
• Africa Film Awards for Best Actor in a Leading Role (2019).^[16]
• Best of Nollywood Award for the Best Actor in a Supporting Role (2012).^[6]
• Best of Nollywood Award for the Best Supporting Actor (Ifa Iwa) (Yoruba) (2013).^[14]

Is Ibrahim Chatta Married?

Ibrahim Chatta has been married three times and is a proud father of three. He married his first wife, the Nigerian actress, Olayinka Solomon, who bore him his first son and first child, Malik, on the 18th of February, 2008. But the marriage ended amidst controversies on physical abuse in 2012.

On December 30, 2012, he married his second wife, Salamatu Mohammed Lafiaji popularly known as “ogo mushin”, the daughter of the former governor of Kwara state, Senator Sheaba Lafiaji. The marriage bore no child as it ended abruptly on the basis of charges Salamatu placed on him that he is a womanizer and a gold digger, which Chatta refuted, claiming Salamatu had no feeling for him. 

Chatta proceeded to tie the knot with his third wife, Olaide Aishat known as Lizzy Perry, who is also his current wife on October 1, 2016. The marriage plans were veiled in mystery till a few weeks before the wedding, when fans guessed that Lizzy was pregnant. Ibrahim Chatta and LizzyPerry currently have two children, a boy, Ahmad Akorede Akinkumi Alabi Iretunde Mankwo Chatta and a girl, Alhaja Awwau Gogwo Irewamiri Kofoworola Ajinni Adunni.^[17]

Recently, Ibrahim Chatta has taken to his Instagram page, uploaded photos and videos with Nollywood actress, Kemi Korede with the caption “Thank you for accepting me Abeni” and this has raised many questions among his fans. Sources have it that he is set to get married to a fourth wife while others regard it as a joke.^[18]

How Much is Ibrahim Chatta’s Net Worth?

Estimating the net worth of Chatta is believed to be substantial, primarily due the great mass of wealth he has abounded over several decades. His estimated worth is $1.6 million – $1.9 million, as he hasn’t refuted or accepted any amount.^[7] Although Chatta has other profitable sources of income, his successful acting career is his main source of income and has contributed greatly to his net worth. Additionally, his movie director and producer career, singing and songwriter career, endorsement deals, investments, business ventures has contributed to his financial standings. Chatta is known to live a luxurious life in Lekki with homes and cars in his name with money made from his very successful career. In January, 2022, Chatta bought a Chevrolet Camaro RS, an American sport car worth 18 million Naira, starting his year in style.^[19]

Chatta has released some hip hop songs including, Boom Boom Boom, My Money, Area, and Friday Night. He recently released a music, Forever featuring Aje. He has also performed in several movie soundtracks.^[20]

Ibrahim Chatta Current Health Condition

Ibrahim Chatta health condition has been a trending topic for his fans and well-wishers, after he posted a photo of himself on a sick bed on his Instagram page captioned, “Pls stay safe”, but he debunked the rumor, saying he was alive and not dead, that the photo was from a movie scene. There have also been reports of incidents, such as accidents, the detail might vary depending on the sources. Although the specifics of his health condition at any time may not be accessible to the public, Chatta’s health status appears stable, currently.^[21]

Photo credit: @Ibrahim Chatta: Facebook

Has Ibrahim Chatta Quit his Acting Career?

Ibrahim Chatta appears to be fully involved in his acting career as he has starred in various movies already in 2023, including “Jagun Jagun” and “Osoronga”. Though in 2020, Chatta declared to take a short leave from his acting career, currently he is still in his acting career.^[22]

Chatta is an inspiration to many young actors in Nigeria. He has proven that one can make great success in the Nollywood film industry, regardless of background and circumstances.

Ibrahim Chatta Social Media

• Instagram: @ibrahimchatta_lordthespis

• X: @ibrahimchatta

• Facebook: @Ibrahim Chatta

Reference

1. Man Joe (September 15, 2023). “Ibrahim Chatta Biography, Career, Movies, Wife and Net Worth”. Gistreel. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
2. @ibrahimchatta_lordthespis. (October 14, 2022). Instagram. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
3. Mary Jane Eze (November 18, 2022). “Wikipedia: Ibrahim Chatta Biography, Age, Early Life, Career, Networth, Movies, and everything you need to know about Ibrahim Chatta”. Niggaloaded. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
4. @ibrahimchatta_lordthespis. (November 14, 2014). Instagram. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
5. Raykanny (March 29, 2023). “Ibrahim Chatta Biography: Age, Wives, Children, Movies, Parents, Net Worth, Wiki, Girlfriend, Siblings”. Gistflare. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
6. Adrianna Simwa (June 28, 2023). “Ibrahim Chatta’s biography and personal life”. Legit.ng. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
7. Nenpan Ngwan (August 12, 2022). “Ibrahim Chatta Biography and Net Worth Sources”. BuzzNigeria. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
8. “BIOGRAPHYIbrahim Chatta: Biography, Education, Career, Marriage, Net Worth, Achievements and Controversy”. NewsWireNGR. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
9. “Ibrahim Chatta”. IMDb. Retrieved 22 September,2023.
10. “Sort by Popularity – Most Popular Movies and TV Shows With Ibrahim Chatta”. IMDb. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
11. “Why I Wasn’t Nominated at AMVCA…” (May 27, 2023). Eko4Show. Facebook.
12. Lagelu Fm (June, 2023). “Why I Wasn’t Nominated for AMVCA…”. YouTube. Retrieved 22 September,2023.
13. City People (October 18, 2029). “IBRAHIM CHATTA EMERGES CITY PEOPLE BEST ACTOR OF THE YEAR (YORUBA)”. CITY PEOPLE. Retrieved 22 September,2023.
14. “2013 Best of Nollywood Awards”. Wikipedia. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
15. “Actor Ibrahim Chatta, 15 Others Crown Winners of DIYMA Awards”. Sunnewsonline.com. Retrieved 22 September,2023.
16. African Voice (September 27, 2019). “African Film Awards nominations 2019 announced”
17. Chidiebube (June 28, 2021). “Ibrahim Chatta Married his Third Wife At Age 45, but who are his Former Wives?”. BuzzNigeria. Retrieved 23 September, 2023.
18. “@ibrahimchatta_lordthespis”. (October 14, 2022). Instagram. Retrieved 22 September, 2023.
19. “Nollywood actor Ibrahim Chatta acquires new car” (January 8, 2022). P.M. News. Retrieved 23 September, 2023).
20. “Forever ft Aje”. Audiomack. Retrieved 23 September, 2023.
21. Ibrahim Chatta (September 8, 2023). “@On stage”. Facebook. Retrieved 21, 2023.
22. “I’ll quit acting in 2yrs time – Ibrahim Chatta”. National Pilot Newspaper. Retrieved 23 September, 2023.

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