YCee has opened up about one of the most difficult chapters of his life, revealing that a mental health diagnosis in 2020 forced him to step away from music and focus on his recovery.
Speaking during an appearance on the Afropolitan podcast, the “Omo Alhaji” hitmaker reflected on the personal battle that unfolded during the COVID-19 lockdown, explaining that the diagnosis significantly altered both his career and personal life.
YCee disclosed that he spent several months in London, where he was repeatedly admitted to the hospital while undergoing treatment. However, due to the conditions of his visa, he eventually had to return to Nigeria to continue his medical care and therapy.
Describing the experience as one of the toughest periods he has ever faced, the rapper said his recovery journey was far from straightforward, requiring continuous treatment, medication, and professional support over several years.
“In 2020, I got diagnosed with a mental health condition during the lockdown. I was in London for six months and was in-and-out of hospital for about three months.
“I had to return to Nigeria to continue treatment because of the type of Visa I was on. Coming back to Lagos and getting into the system of mental health in Nigeria, it was a very very long six years. I was on medication and had to be hospitalised several times and still dealing with therapies.
“It was up and down. Sometimes it is looking good and sometimes, it just gets really dark,” he noted.
Despite the challenges, YCee shared an encouraging update, revealing that he is now in a much more stable place after receiving the treatment and support he needed.
His candid account sheds light on the importance of seeking professional help and continuing care, while offering fans a deeper understanding of the circumstances that led to his temporary absence from the music scene.
“I was diagnosed with a mental health disorder in 2020 🥲
After medications and multiple hospitalizations, I had to accept that the version of me I knew wasn’t coming back. It affected my creativity — I could no longer freestyle like I used to.”
— Ycee pic.twitter.com/7pMM3Nxarc
— SKB (@seyikanbai) June 24, 2026