LAGOS, Nigeria (FN), On‑air personality Mayowa Lambe has issued a cease‑and‑desist notice to her estranged husband, comedian Robert Ekpenyong Ekpo, demanding a public retraction and one hundred million naira in damages over remarks he made about her.
The notice, dated April 22 and signed by attorney K. Umoh, was delivered through the legal department of Aunt Landa’s Bethel Foundation and shared publicly by Lambe’s representatives. It directed Ekpo to halt further dissemination of the alleged defamatory statements, delete related content, publish a public apology on the same platforms, and pay damages. Failure to comply within three days, the document warned, would trigger legal action, including aggravated damages, injunctive relief, and possible criminal complaints.
In his recent public comments, Ekpo alleged infidelity, dishonesty, and financial strain during their marriage. He claimed Lambe concealed contraceptive use while he underwent fertility tests, misled him about medical procedures abroad, and treated him coldly after years of estrangement.
The dispute has sparked widespread debate online. Supporters of Lambe rallied under trending hashtags, calling for accountability in digital media. Critics argued that airing private marital disputes crossed ethical lines, while others defended Ekpo’s right to share his perspective.
Celebrities and stakeholders weighed in. Singer Tiwa Savage reposted Lambe’s statement with the caption “Respect women, respect voices.” Nollywood actor Richard Mofe‑Damijo urged “professionalism and restraint” in public commentary. Policy makers and media regulators said the case underscores the need for clearer guidelines on digital broadcasting. The Nigerian Broadcasting Commission noted it was monitoring developments, while civil society groups stressed balancing free speech with protection against reputational harm.
Analysts say the case could set a precedent for how Nigerian courts handle disputes arising from digital platforms, which have become increasingly influential in shaping public opinion.
Ekpo has not yet issued a formal response to the notice.
