Infidelity Scandals Among Nigerian Entertainers: Growing Trend of Betrayal, Public Drama

Infidelity among Nigerian celebrities has become a recurring topic of public discourse, with scandals often playing out on social media. The entertainment industry, once known primarily for glitz and glamour, now frequently makes headlines for marital betrayals, extramarital affairs, and messy public disputes.

Recent controversies involving Nollywood actor Baba Tee and skitmaker Ijoba Lande’s wife, Dara, have reignited discussions on the growing trend of infidelity in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.

Nollywood actor Babatunde Tayo, popularly known as Baba Tee, recently admitted to having a brief sexual encounter with Dara, the wife of comedian Ijoba Lande. The revelation came after weeks of accusations and counterclaims.

Initially, Baba Tee had denied any involvement, daring Ijoba Lande to provide proof of his alleged affair with Dara. However, in a shocking turn of events, the actor later confessed during a live interview with socialite Esabod, acknowledging that he had engaged in a brief sexual encounter with Dara during a “Truth or Dare” game.

According to Baba Tee, the incident took place while he was intoxicated, and he was unaware that Dara was married to Ijoba Lande at the time. He further alleged that he was set up by Dara and her friend Marygold, who facilitated the meeting. “I only did doggy, not proper sex,” Baba Tee stated, attempting to downplay the incident. Following his confession, he publicly apologized to Ijoba Lande, admitting his mistake and expressing regret over the controversy.

In response to the allegations, Dara denied having full intercourse with Baba Tee, claiming that she merely sat on his lap naked during the game. Speaking in an interview with Esabod, she explained that she had consumed excessive alcohol, which impaired her judgment. She also alleged that Marygold was the mastermind behind the events of that night, encouraging her participation in the game despite her initial reluctance.

Her account contradicted Baba Tee’s admission, raising questions about the true nature of the incident. While Baba Tee admitted to partial sexual activity, Dara maintained that nothing substantial happened. This inconsistency further fueled public speculation, with many questioning the credibility of both parties.

However, the Baba Tee-Dara scandal is not an isolated incident. Over the years, numerous Nigerian entertainers have been embroiled in infidelity scandals, often leading to messy breakups, divorces, and public disgrace.

The entertainment industry appears to have developed a pattern where marital unfaithfulness is normalized, with many celebrities engaging in extramarital affairs despite being in committed relationships.

Prominent figures such as music stars, actors, and comedians have frequently made headlines for cheating scandals. Some of these cases have led to prolonged legal battles, while others have resulted in public apologies and reconciliations. The common denominator in most cases is the involvement of social media, where accusations, confessions, and counterclaims are played out in real-time, drawing massive public attention.

Social media has played a significant role in exposing infidelity within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Platforms such as Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok have become the go-to outlets for both accusers and the accused to share their sides of the story. What would have once been private disputes now unfold before millions of followers, often leading to public scrutiny and judgment.

In the case of Baba Tee and Dara, the controversy escalated after Ijoba Lande took to Instagram to expose his wife’s alleged infidelity. This public revelation led to counter accusations from both Baba Tee and Dara, with multiple live interviews and posts dragging the issue further into the limelight. While social media provides a platform for transparency, it also amplifies scandals, making it difficult for those involved to escape public ridicule.

Meanwhile, Infidelity has led to the collapse of numerous marriages within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. The impact goes beyond just the individuals involved, affecting their families, children, and even their careers. Trust is often irreparably damaged, and many celebrities find it difficult to regain their public image after being involved in cheating scandals.

For Ijoba Lande, the revelation of his wife’s alleged infidelity has reportedly led to the breakdown of their marriage. He claimed that Dara moved out of their home in January 2025 after he confronted her about her affair with Baba Tee. This pattern is similar to many other celebrity relationships that have crumbled due to cheating scandals.

The Nigerian public also, has varying reactions to celebrity infidelity scandals. While some condemn the acts outrightly, others see them as mere entertainment. The frequency of such scandals has led to a level of desensitization, where cheating among entertainers is seen as expected rather than shocking.

Some fans and followers even defend their favorite celebrities, arguing that their private lives should not be subjected to public judgment. However, others believe that entertainers, as public figures, should set better examples, especially for younger generations who look up to them.

The recurring nature of infidelity scandals in the entertainment industry raises important questions about morality, accountability, and the consequences of unfaithfulness. While personal choices are private matters, the ripple effects of cheating especially among public figures often extend beyond just the individuals involved.

While social media has made it easier to expose infidelity, it has also contributed to the sensationalization of personal conflicts. As these scandals continue to unfold, it remains to be seen whether celebrities will learn from past mistakes or if infidelity will remain an accepted norm in the Nigerian entertainment scene. Ultimately, accountability, respect for relationships, and a commitment to personal integrity are necessary steps toward preventing such controversies in the future.