Nollywood’s Iyabo Ojo Says Ignoring Lizzy Anjorin’s Alleged Insults Is a Conscious Choice—Here’s Why She’s Taking the High Road
The Nigerian entertainment world is again abuzz, as the ongoing rift between Nollywood stars Iyabo Ojo and Lizzy Anjorin continues to draw public attention. Amidst speculation and heated reactions on social media, Iyabo Ojo has spoken openly about her deliberate silence in response to what she describes as a prolonged barrage of insults and curses targeting her family—including her daughter, Priscillia, and her newborn grandson, Rakeem Mkambala.
For months, observers and fans have watched Lizzy Anjorin allegedly post taunts and negative comments about Ojo and her household on various platforms. This very public feud has set social media alight, with hashtags trending and followers expressing varied opinions about the public behavior of two of Nollywood’s most influential actresses.
Choosing Silence: Ojo’s Calculated Response
On Sunday, Iyabo Ojo took to Instagram to address growing concerns and questions from well-wishers and followers regarding her restrained approach. She noted the emotional difficulty in holding back, especially in the face of what she describes as “defamatory statements, insults, death wishes, and curses,” particularly those directed at her grandson.
“I’ve seen all your messages, DMs, voice notes, and questions about my silent approach,” Ojo wrote on her verified Instagram handle. “Honestly, most of the time, I struggle to hold my peace…but I have to ignore the distractions. Who God has blessed, no one can curse,” she added, in a post that many saw as a demonstration of maturity amidst provocation.
Legal Preparation and Family Priorities
Ojo emphasized that her current silence is not a sign of weakness or indifference. Instead, she said it is a conscious act of focus, as her legal team is actively monitoring all developments. According to Iyabo, these professionals are already documenting everything for appropriate legal response.
“A wise one must always listen to the counsel of the learned team. Everything has its timing,” she explained, underscoring her reliance on legal guidance over immediate confrontation. Legal analysts in Lagos have often advised public figures to allow the law to take its course in cases of defamation or cyberbullying, noting that emotional responses can complicate legal proceedings.
Furthermore, Ojo highlighted her current responsibilities as a grandmother and a pillar of support for her daughter, Priscillia. “Over the past few months, it has been strictly about focusing on family while my legal team takes note and prepares me for the battles ahead. Welcoming my grandson, supporting my daughter through her motherhood journey, and standing in the gap, both physically and spiritually, required my undivided attention,” she said.
Stepping Back to Move Forward
The actress assured her fans that the present calm does not signal acceptance or resignation. Instead, she stated that as soon as she returns to Lagos, she intends to address the issues directly and with the seriousness required. “Note that once I land in Lagos, God willing, yes, it will be time to tackle challenges. Silence can be powerful, and while it’s not always easy for me, I know it’s sometimes necessary. I love you all and appreciate your genuine concerns. Keep being your wonderful selves, and I’ll keep you all updated when the time is right. God bless,” Ojo affirmed.
Nigerian Public Reactions and the Power of Silence
Iyabo’s choice to address matters through legal channels rather than social media confrontation has sparked discussions about conflict resolution in public life. Lagos-based social commentator Sola Adeyemo noted, “In a society where social media often amplifies disputes, it takes real discipline for celebrities to prioritize legal processes and family over drama. Ojo is sending a message that not every storm deserves a public response.”
Meanwhile, fans are split. Some have praised Ojo’s mature stance, commending her for “choosing peace over pettiness” and focusing on family and the wellbeing of her daughter and grandson. Others argue that high-profile silence can sometimes be misinterpreted as acquiescence, potentially emboldening further public provocation.
- Instagram follower @mariam_oguns: “Iyabo is doing the right thing. Sometimes, the best clapback is achieving your own peace and success.”
- @tonia_cares: “I just hope the legal system will give her the justice she seeks. There’s too much negativity on social media.”
Expert Perspective: Defamation, Cyberbullying, and Legal Recourse in Nigeria
Legal experts in Nigeria point out that while freedom of speech is constitutionally protected, there are clear limitations when it crosses into the territory of defamation, libel, or cyberbullying. According to Barrister Bisi Adekunle, “When public figures are targeted with repeated verbal attacks or threats online, they have the right to seek legal protection under Nigerian law—including seeking injunctions, damages, and, in some cases, criminal prosecution.”
Adekunle noted, however, that litigation involving prominent personal disputes can be lengthy, and the courts often urge parties to consider mediation. She explained: “Legal action is important for claiming one’s rights, but it’s always wise to balance it with the public’s appetite for spectacle. Sometimes, silence sends the strongest signal that one is not on the same level as their detractors.”
The Broader African and Global View
Iyabo Ojo’s approach resonates beyond Nigeria, mirroring trends seen in other parts of Africa and among global celebrities who are increasingly choosing legal measures over online sparring. In Ghana, for example, actress Yvonne Nelson publicly took a similar stance against public defamation, while in South Africa, artists have also increasingly turned to their legal teams for redress.
These cases highlight both the power and danger of social media. While it democratizes expression, it can also amplify negative behavior if unchecked. Experts advise that with the increase in online harassment in the entertainment industry across Africa, both legal reform and responsible public behavior are needed for a healthier celebrity culture.
What’s Next? A Test Case for Nollywood and Social Media Etiquette
As Iyabo Ojo prepares to return to Lagos, fans and observers await to see how this high-profile rift will be resolved, and whether her legal response will set new standards for addressing personal disputes among Nigerian celebrities. The matter continues to generate important conversations about reputation, digital responsibility, and the place of the law in modern African society.
Are you following the developments between Iyabo Ojo and Lizzy Anjorin? What do you think about using legal action versus public confrontation in celebrity disputes? Share your opinion in the comments section below and let us know which side you agree with, and why!
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