One out of every three women faces domestic or sexual violence, as reported by the World Health Organization (WHO). As we celebrate International Women’s Day, it’s concerning to note a rise in domestic abuse cases among couples in Nigeria, with even celebrities experiencing victimization. Here is a compilation of female celebrities who have encountered domestic abuse in their marriages.
Georgina Onuoha
Georgina, a Lagos native, attended Badagry Grammar School for secondary education and obtained her West African Senior Certificate. Later, she pursued dual degrees at LASU, completing an associate degree in international law and diplomacy before attaining a bachelor’s degree in international relations and strategic studies.
Renowned as a Nollywood actress, model, television personality, and philanthropist, Georgina Onuoha became a victim of domestic violence in her marriage to Dr. C. Igwegbe. The marriage ended due to charges of domestic abuse. Prior to their separation in 2012, the couple, blessed with two daughters, enjoyed a seemingly happy family life.
Suzanne Rero
In 2015, Suzanne Rero initiated the end of her 17-year relationship with Emeka Ike by filing for divorce, citing accusations of domestic abuse. Despite the outward appearance of a perfect union, Suzanne asserted that Emeka had verbally and physically mistreated her throughout their entire marriage.
Emeka, contrary to Suzanne’s claims, maintained that their marriage was harmonious, fulfilling each other’s needs and sharing happiness. However, the court, examining the evidence, determined that their relationship was irreparable and granted the divorce.
Mercy Aigbe
In 2017, renowned Nollywood actress Mercy publicly accused her husband, Lanre Gentry, of assaulting her on social media. The alleged battering resulted in a skull fracture, leading to the couple’s separation.
Mercy, confirming the abuse, revealed, “He beats me consistently. I stayed because I loved him, and every time he harmed me, he begged and enlisted family and friends to plead with me. He regularly promised to change but never did.”
She continued, “When my husband is angered, he becomes physically aggressive, not only towards me but anyone. He even mistreated my house help, who reported him to the police years ago. Despite the abuse, I endured for the sake of my children and the image people held of me as a role model. I simply wanted to maintain a home,” alleged Aigbe. However, her husband denied these claims.
Foluke Daramola
In a 2016 interview, Foluke Daramola bravely shared that she had been a victim of rape during her teenage years. Her marriage to Babatunde Sobowale was marred by reported instances of domestic abuse, ultimately resulting in their separation in 2008. Folake asserted that the breakup was a consequence of both alleged domestic abuse and infidelity. Since then, the actress has found love once again, content in her marriage to Kayode Salako.
Monalisa Chinda
Born on September 13, 1974, Monalisa Chinda is a versatile Nigerian figure, excelling as an actress, film producer, television personality, and media personality.
In 2014, Monalisa Chinda candidly disclosed her experience with domestic violence, leading to the cancellation of her first marriage to Dejo Richards. Reflecting on the failed union, she expressed, “I tried to make it work, but it takes two people to tango.”
Twelve years after that distressing episode, Chinda found love anew in the arms of Victor Coker, whom she affectionately refers to as her “lord and master.”
When questioned about her decision to remarry, she explained, “Honestly, after my challenging divorce, I wanted my daughter to grow up with a father figure. If for nothing else, I did it for my child before doing it for myself.”
Osinachi Nwachukwu
Osinachi Nwachukwu, the Nigerian gospel musician who passed away on April 8, 2022, gained fame through the single “Ekwueme” by Prospa Ochimana. Tragically, her untimely demise was linked to allegations of domestic violence, and her husband, Peter Nwachukwu, was arrested in connection with her death.
The life of the gospel musician, Osinachi Nwachukwu, was cut short by the devastating impact of domestic abuse. Her flourishing music career was abruptly halted due to the abuse she endured for years, allegedly at the hands of her husband. In the wake of her death, calls for justice resonate widely among those who seek accountability for the harm she suffered.
Faithia williams(Balogun)
Faithia Williams, of Urhobo descent from Delta state, was born into a polygamous family of nine on February 5, 1969, in Ikeja.
Formerly married to veteran Nollywood actor Saheed Balogun, Faithia has two children, a son and a daughter, with him. She also has a son from a previous relationship. During her marriage to Saheed, she adopted the name Faithia Balogun, taking her husband’s surname and embracing a change in religious beliefs.
Despite the outward beauty of their union, the marriage faced challenges, including stories of domestic violence. After a prolonged period of separation, the couple officially divorced in 2015.
Tonto Dikeh
Born on June 9, 1985, Tonto Charity Dikeh is a multifaceted Nigerian figure, excelling as an actress, singer, songwriter, and humanitarian. On August 27, 2000, she established “The Tonto Dikeh Foundation.”
Tonto Dikeh, a prominent Nollywood actress, was previously wedded to philanthropist Olakunle Churchill. However, in February 2017, she publicly confirmed her separation from her husband, citing allegations of violence as the reason for their parting.
Chika Ike
Chika Ike, a versatile figure in the realms of production, business, philanthropy, and former modeling, was once married to Mr. Eberibi. Following the collapse of their marriage, Chika Ike disclosed that she had endured abuse, revealing that one of their confrontations led to a heartbreaking miscarriage.
An advocate against abusive relationships, Ike has been vocal about her personal experience with domestic violence. In 2013, she candidly shared the challenges she faced in her past marriage, ultimately leading her to file for divorce.
Tiwa Savage
Tiwatope Omolara Savage, born on 5 February 1980, is a Nigerian singer, songwriter, and actress, recognized as the Queen of Afrobeats. Unfortunately, during her marriage to manager-turned-ex-husband Tee Billz (Tunji Balogun), she revealed in an interview that she experienced domestic violence, enduring physical harm such as bruised eyes and swollen lips. This revelation came shortly after their separation, shedding light on the challenges she faced before and during their two-year marriage.
Addressing the growing domestic violence issue is crucial, urging victims to speak out. Let’s foster a supportive atmosphere where survivors can reconstruct their lives. This International Women’s Day, let’s unite against domestic violence and celebrate the strength of those who have overcome it.