ABUJA, Nigeria (FN) — Nollywood veteran Rita Daniels has accused her daughter’s estranged husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, of harassment and abuse of power following the alleged arrest of two of her children.
In a video shared Monday on Instagram by Regina Daniels’ brother, Sweezy, Rita Daniels said Nwoko used Regina’s fame to boost his public image and is now retaliating after the actress reportedly moved out of their home. “You wanted someone with a star to boost your fallen star,” she said.
The comments came hours after Regina Daniels posted a series of emotional messages on social media, claiming Nwoko had ordered the arrest of her elder brother and sister. She also expressed fear that her younger sister might be next.
Rita Daniels, who had previously defended her daughter’s marriage to the Delta North senator, said she could no longer remain silent. “We’ve covered up your shame long enough,” she said, accusing Nwoko of trying to tarnish Regina’s image with allegations of drug abuse.
The allegations have sparked a wave of reactions across social media, with fans and celebrities expressing outrage and solidarity. “This is heartbreaking. No woman should be punished for walking away,” wrote actress Tonto Dikeh on Instagram. “Power must never be used to silence or intimidate.”
Another user on X (formerly Twitter), @AdaOnyeoma, posted, “Rita Daniels is speaking for every mother who’s watched her child suffer in silence. Enough is enough.”
The hashtags #JusticeForRegina and #FreeReginaSiblings trended nationwide, with many calling for legal intervention and an independent investigation into the arrests. “This is not just a family matter — it’s a human rights issue,” tweeted @ChukaRights, a Lagos-based activist.
As of Tuesday morning, the Nigerian Police Force had not confirmed the circumstances surrounding the reported detentions. Senator Nwoko has also not issued a formal response to the allegations.
Regina Daniels, 24, married Nwoko in 2019 in a union that drew public attention due to their age gap and high-profile lifestyle. Recent reports suggest the actress has filed for divorce, citing alleged domestic violence.
The unfolding drama marks a dramatic shift in the once-celebrated relationship between Regina Daniels and Ned Nwoko, with family members now publicly challenging the senator’s actions and calling for justice.
