Actress Tonto Dikeh has addressed widespread online speculation over a viral clip from her son’s recent birthday party, after many social media users claimed she was hugging her ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill.
The video, which circulated widely on Monday, showed Tonto embracing a man who resembles Churchill.
The clip triggered backlash online, with some critics noting that Churchill is married and describing the hug as inappropriate.
Responding on Tuesday in the comments section of a blog post, Tonto clarified that the man in the video is Churchill’s uncle, not her former husband.
According to the actress, the elderly man played a significant role in her life during a vulnerable period.
She explained that her son was born in his home in the United States, and that his wife personally took her to the hospital when she went into labour. Tonto said the couple cared for her and her baby for six months.
In her words, she wrote:
“This is completely inappropriate and inaccurate. He is Churchill’s uncle and, by extension, my uncle as well. My son was born in his home, under his care and protection. His wife, Aunty Vivian, was the one who took me to the hospital when I went into labour.
They opened their home to me for six months… They did this out of love, with no hesitation.
Please, Oremi, this narrative is deeply disrespectful to him, to me, and to our families. I would appreciate more thoughtfulness and sensitivity moving forward, please.”
Before her clarification, several users had criticised Tonto’s actions, assuming the man was Churchill.
A media aide to the Delta State governor, Ossai Success, had also weighed in, urging the actress to respect the fact that Churchill is now married to fellow actress Rosy Meurer and to avoid public gestures that could be misinterpreted.
The viral clip was taken from a football-themed birthday party held in Abuja for Tonto and Churchill’s son, who recently turned 10.
Another video from the event showed Tonto praising Churchill’s role as a father and offering prayers for his family before the celebratory moments that later drew public attention.
