ABUJA, Nigeria — The family of Nollywood actress Regina Daniels has issued an open letter to Nigerian senator Ned Nwoko, accusing him of refusing to accept the bride price returned by her relatives, a move they say violates cultural norms and has led to unjust treatment of her family.
The letter, shared publicly by filmmaker Stanley Ontop, emphasizes that marriage cannot be forced and that, according to the customs of the Ogwashi-Uku community, a woman has the right to leave a marriage. In such cases, tradition requires the bride price to be returned, which the family claims they have done, only for Nwoko to allegedly reject it.
The family stated that when a man refuses to accept the bride price, the community is permitted to deposit the funds at a designated location. In this instance, they chose Ikeleke Quarter in Ogwashi-Uku to formally conclude the marital obligations. They condemned the reported arrest and intimidation of the woman’s relatives, calling it oppressive and contrary to the community’s values.
“Marriage, by our custom, is never by force,” the letter reads. “If the woman decides not to continue in the marriage, custom demands that her family return the bride price. In this case, the family has made every effort to do so, but you have, allegedly, refused to accept it.”
The Ogwashi-Uku community, known for its peaceful traditions, expressed disappointment over the alleged mistreatment. “We cannot stand by while our customs and dignity are trampled upon,” the letter continued, urging Nwoko to respect cultural procedures and allow the matter to be resolved traditionally.
The controversy has sparked widespread reactions online. Social media users voiced support for Regina Daniels and her family, with many praising the community’s stance. “Good move… marriage is not by force,” one user wrote. Another added, “I am proud of my Ogwashi-Uku community.”
Others criticized Senator Nwoko’s alleged actions, calling them disgraceful and abusive. “Disgraceful for a sitting senator! Shame wear me agbada,” one comment read. Another user expressed concern for Daniels, saying, “She deserves someone who would match her energy in every positive way.”
Some commenters highlighted Daniels’ kindness to her community, suggesting that her goodwill has earned her their support. “Regina was very good to them, they have woken up,” one user noted. Another added, “Now he will understand that one man cannot make a forest.”
As of now, Senator Nwoko has not publicly responded to the allegations. The situation continues to draw attention across Nigeria, with calls for both federal and traditional institutions to intervene and uphold justice and cultural integrity.
