Nigerian musician Tems has revealed a surprising takeaway from her brief stint in a Ugandan prison. In an interview with ES Magazine, Tems, known for her chart-topping song “Crazy Things,” said the experience, though difficult, ultimately proved to be a positive one.

Tems explained that being incarcerated allowed her to connect with women who were facing long-term struggles within the prison system. She described the experience as “humbling” and said it fostered a newfound empathy for those facing incarceration. Tems even shared that she used her time to help others, reportedly teaching some fellow inmates how to read and write, and finding solace in singing together.

The comments come after Tems and fellow musician Omah Lay were arrested in Uganda in December 2020 for violating COVID-19 regulations by performing at a concert. The pair faced charges and were detained for two nights before being released on bail.