Popular Nollywood actress Destiny Etiko has strongly refuted allegations that she had an affair with Matthew Ekeinde, the husband of renowned movie star Omotola Jalade.
The rumors, which originated from a TikTok blogger, also claimed that Ekeinde purchased a car for Etiko.
In response to these allegations, Etiko addressed her followers during a recent Instagram live session, where she categorically denied the claims, labeling them as “false.”
She asserted that the rumors were part of a broader effort by some individuals to tarnish her reputation.
“If you want to withhold the blessings of God in somebody else’s life and you want to grow, it is impossible,” Etiko stated.
“Before, you guys had always spoken ill about me. Do men give money? If they do, I do not know. Even if they do, I do not know. The last time I checked, I worked for 99.9% of all I have. I did it all myself with my full chest. I do not know why some people are bitter; perhaps they are scared.”
Addressing the specific claim involving Ekeinde, Etiko clarified that the viral photo of her and Ekeinde, which had sparked the rumors, was taken over four years ago.
She explained that the photograph was taken during a flight where Ekeinde was the pilot, and she had requested a selfie out of respect for him as the husband of a senior colleague.
“Some bitter people…sat down and brought pictures of Omotola’s husband that I took with him over four years ago,” Etiko explained.
“I was on a flight and he was the pilot, so some people were snapping pictures with me. He asked what was happening, and they told him I was an actress. He looked, and I greeted him with (the) respect of a senior colleague’s husband. I asked him to let us take a selfie because of respect. We went there and took a selfie, and that was it.”
Etiko, who has built a successful career in Nollywood, also took the opportunity to reflect on her journey and share advice with aspiring actors. Last year, she emphasized the importance of punctuality and passion in one’s career, urging young actors to remain focused and work hard, regardless of their current achievements.
She cited examples of successful individuals like Aliko Dangote and enduring brands like Coca-Cola to highlight the value of dedication and perseverance.
Having earned a degree in Theatre Arts from Nnamdi Azikiwe University, Etiko joined Nollywood in 2012 and rose to prominence after starring in the movie “Idemili,” produced by Ernest Obi.
