Could you share some insights about your surprising journey in the house and whether you ever imagined winning the ultimate prize?
My name is Sule Kingsley Ochukwu Orochetimeyi, also known as Kellyrae. At no point did I believe I would win. I was simply praying, “God, please keep us here for at least the first and second week.” If we had left in the first week, I would have wondered what we were leaving behind and what we would take with us. Those two thoughts were important to me: we need to leave with something, but also leave something behind. Ultimately, even if we walk away with all the money, it’s what we leave behind that people will discuss, and those are the things that will open more doors for us.
I was praying silently, asking God to keep us here for at least the first and second week. Once we made it through the first, second, third, and fourth weeks, I thought, “Whatever happens now, God takes all the glory.” I truly had no idea I would win.
If someone had asked me to predict the winner, I doubt I would have mentioned my name. I might have only done so out of faith, given everything that was happening in the house.
Who do you think would have won if it hadn’t been you?
Based on what I’ve heard about Big Brother Naija and the type of content viewers enjoy, I thought people like Wanni, Hanni, and Onyeka had a good chance. They were memorable and very popular in the house.
Meanwhile, I was just focused on being myself and doing my own thing
Some people believe you intentionally hid your marital status as part of your strategy to reach the finals.
What do you say to that?
That wasn’t a strategy to reach the finals; it was about my survival in the house and connecting with others. I wanted to build relationships, like when I danced with Onyeka and Hanni during the parties. If I had entered as a married man, the dynamics would have changed—just look at how the girls kept their distance from Sooj. The guys wouldn’t have felt comfortable dancing with my wife either. My goal was to create connections and make friends. I intended to share my marital status later on, so it wasn’t about getting to the final.
Now that you’ve won, how do you plan to balance your newfound fame with your marriage?
Before entering the show, I had a clear idea of what to expect and discussed it with my wife, Kassia. I told her that life would change significantly and we should be prepared for that. I’m ready for it.
Although I just married Kassia on February 10, 2024, I’ve felt connected to her for a long time. We’ve been committed to each other for quite a while, so I believe we’ll navigate this new chapter together.
How do you believe winning this reality show will affect your life outside of your music career?
Even before I won, I was already feeling the show’s impact on my life and career. By the fourth or fifth week, I was grateful, telling God that even if I didn’t win, I had already gained so much. It’s really about how I choose to leverage this experience moving forward.
With the ongoing issue between Davido and Wizkid, how do you plan to handle potential collaborations with both?
I love both Davido and Wizkid! There’s no issue; we’re all good. Don’t worry about it.
What do you mean by “no issues? Can you elaborate? Do you feel that being married positively impacted your experience on the show?
Honestly, I don’t even have my phone yet, so I’m unaware of what’s been happening outside. I haven’t had a chance to talk to my wife either; we spent the night apart in different hotels. As of now, I really have no idea what’s been going on outside while we were in the house.
What challenges did you face during the competition?
Honestly, I didn’t face any significant challenges. I often predicted what would happen in the house; I even shared my thoughts with Tofa and some other housemates. I had a strong instinct about the events that were going to unfold, and I felt prepared for anything that came my way.
The only thing I avoided was engaging in banter with the ladies. As you might have noticed, I didn’t participate in that, but with the guys, I was open to anything.
How do you plan to divide the money between your wife, Kassia, and your co-contestants?
Don’t worry, we’ll have a meeting to discuss it. I want to see my wife first, so please bring her out. Once we talk, I’ll share the details with everyone.
You referred to her as your secretary and treasurer. What’s that about?
Yes, she’s both the secretary and the treasurer. When I worked on my EP (Extended Music Play), we started calling her those titles because we were planning for something big to happen. She’s committed to that role, and it feels fitting.
What impact do you anticipate this experience will have on your music career?
It will have a significant impact. While some say that entering the Big Brother house can stall a music career, I believe I’m different. We’ve made history here; the money is a first for me. This is Kelly Ray, and I’m establishing my own identity.
If you had to choose a role model among past winners, who would it be and why?
I admire all the previous winners for different reasons. It’s not just about one person; each has qualities I respect. As my mom used to say, “If you’re wise, you’ll learn from everyone.” I take lessons from all of them, so they all serve as role models for me.
How are you feeling right now?
Honestly, I’m still processing everything. I think I need some time to let it all sink in. I couldn’t sleep at all last night; I was just tossing and turning. I’d catch myself looking in the mirror, thinking, “Wow, being a millionaire looks good on you.” It’s hard to believe I went from having nothing to suddenly being 60 million naira richer and now owning an IVME SUV.
What’s the highest amount you have earned before this?
I’ve made millions, but I’ve never had a million like this in my account at once. Sure, I’ve spent millions over time, but I’ve never had a lump sum like this come together all at once. It’s a completely new experience for me.
How do you plan to utilise this time?
I believe it’s important to grow into what I truly believe in. I’ve dedicated time to this growth, so there’s no rush. I’ll continue to rest, reflect, and take things step by step. As I mentioned, my thoughts are still in the processing stage.
