Nollywood actress Tonto Dikeh has responded to criticism that followed a viral video showing her praying for a schoolgirl during an outreach programme.
The video, which circulated widely on social media, showed the actress conducting what she described as a deliverance session for the student. The scene sparked mixed reactions online, with some users questioning whether such an activity was appropriate within a school environment.
Reacting to the backlash, Tonto defended her actions and reaffirmed her Christian faith in a post shared on social media.
“I would rather be mocked, ridiculed or even slain than silence the name of the one who saved me,” she wrote.
The actress stressed that she would not hide her faith because of public criticism.
“I EVANGELIST TONTO DIKEH WOULD RATHER BE MOCKED, RIDICULED, OR EVEN SLAIN THAN SILENCE THE NAME OF THE ONE WHO SAVED ME. I REFUSE TO HIDE OR DIM MY LIGHT BECAUSE IT MAKES OTHERS UNCOMFORTABLE,” she added.
According to Tonto, the incident occurred during an evangelism outreach programme when the student approached her seeking prayers after complaining about disturbing experiences.
She explained that prayers were offered and the situation was handled from a spiritual perspective.
In recent months, the actress has spoken openly about her renewed Christian faith.
She recently revealed that she completed a discipleship programme at Streams of Joy International, the church led by Pastor Jerry Eze.
Tonto Dikeh rose to prominence in Nollywood in the mid-2000s, starring in films such as Dirty Secret, Games Fools Play, and Blackberry Babes.
Beyond acting, she is also known for her philanthropic work through the Tonto Dikeh Foundation, which focuses on supporting vulnerable groups and community development initiatives.
