Senator Ned Nwoko has strongly refuted viral reports alleging that he has taken a new wife, describing the claims as entirely false, malicious, and a deliberate attempt to mislead the public. The lawmaker, who represents Delta North Senatorial District, issued a detailed public statement on Friday to clarify the situation after a video surfaced online showing him in the company of a young woman. The video quickly sparked social media speculation, with some users claiming the woman was his new wife.
In his statement, Nwoko explained that the woman in question had visited him alongside her team under the Peace Ambassadors Initiative, led by Ambassador Dr. Adejo Sule. He said the visit was purely official and had nothing to do with any personal or romantic involvement. “A video recently brought to my attention shows a young woman who visited with her team under the Peace Ambassadors Initiative,” Nwoko said. “It is now being circulated online with false claims attempting to affiliate me with her. It is unfortunate what social media has become, a space where moments are easily twisted for clout and misinformation.”
The senator noted that during the delegation’s visit, photographs were taken with members of the team, as is customary whenever he receives guests. He explained that such interactions are normal for public figures and should not be interpreted otherwise. “This is not unusual,” he said. “Even in public places or outdoor events, people often request to take pictures with me, and I oblige. It is therefore mischievous and malicious for anyone to exploit such gestures to fabricate false narratives.”
Senator Nwoko emphasized that he has no personal or private connection with the young woman featured in the video and cautioned the public against believing or spreading unverified stories. “Let me state clearly and unequivocally that the news being propagated around her visit is entirely false,” he stressed. “I do not have any form of personal or private connection with her.”
The Delta-born politician, known for his openness to civic and diplomatic engagements, expressed disappointment at how social media platforms have increasingly become a breeding ground for misinformation. He lamented that innocent moments are often twisted to create false narratives aimed at generating engagement or controversy. “It is sad to see how easily people can take a simple moment — a photograph or handshake — and turn it into a story that never existed,” he said. “This behavior is dangerous, not only to the individuals involved but also to society, as it erodes trust and promotes irresponsibility in public discourse.”
Nwoko further warned that those spreading such fabrications could face legal consequences under the Cybercrime (Prohibition, Prevention, etc.) Act of 2015, which criminalizes the deliberate spread of falsehood or defamation online. He urged individuals, media outlets, and content creators to desist from propagating baseless stories that could damage reputations or mislead the public. “I strongly caution individuals, groups, or media outlets spreading this fabricated story to desist immediately,” he warned. “Any further propagation of this false narrative will attract appropriate legal action. The Cybercrime Act remains in full force and applies to anyone involved in the deliberate spread of falsehood or defamation in cyberspace.”
The senator’s statement quickly went viral across multiple social media platforms, with many users weighing in on the growing problem of misinformation in Nigeria’s online space. Supporters of Nwoko praised him for addressing the rumors directly and for maintaining composure amid the controversy. Others pointed out that celebrities and public figures often become easy targets for fabricated stories, especially in an era where digital content spreads rapidly without proper verification.
Observers also noted that this is not the first time the politician has had to deal with public speculation about his personal life. Nwoko, who is married to popular actress Regina Daniels, has been the subject of repeated social media gossip due to his polygamous background and high-profile lifestyle. However, his camp has consistently maintained that he is focused on his political career, philanthropy, and community development projects rather than on rumors that aim to distract him.
A source close to the senator, speaking anonymously, described the incident as “a clear example of how far some individuals will go to chase social media relevance.” The source added, “Senator Ned Nwoko receives numerous delegations daily — from youth groups, cultural associations, NGOs, and other bodies. It is completely normal for photos and videos to be taken. To claim that every woman who appears in such images is his new wife is not only ridiculous but damaging.”
The controversy also reignited broader conversations about digital responsibility and the ethics of content sharing in Nigeria. Many social media commentators urged users to verify information before reposting, noting that false stories can have lasting effects on reputations and mental health. Digital rights advocates emphasized that while the internet has democratized access to information, it has also made it easier for misinformation to thrive unchecked.
In response to the incident, several media analysts called for stronger enforcement of existing cyber laws to discourage the reckless spread of fake news. They also advised public figures to remain transparent and proactive in addressing misleading reports before they gain momentum online. According to them, Nwoko’s swift reaction demonstrates how important it is for those in public office to protect their image through timely communication.
Meanwhile, some online users have expressed frustration over the frequent circulation of false claims about public figures, arguing that such actions diminish the credibility of social media as a space for genuine information sharing. “It’s time people learn that not everything that trends is true,” one user commented. “Social media has turned into a rumor mill, and people don’t realize the damage they cause to real lives.”
As the dust begins to settle, Senator Nwoko’s statement serves as both a personal defense and a broader warning to purveyors of misinformation. His firm stance against falsehood highlights the growing need for digital accountability in Nigeria’s evolving media landscape. The senator reiterated his commitment to continue his legislative and humanitarian work, undeterred by distractions. “My focus remains on service, development, and the welfare of my constituents,” he said. “No amount of falsehood will derail that mission.”
The incident underscores a larger issue facing public figures across Africa — the fine line between accessibility and vulnerability in the digital age. With smartphones and social media blurring the boundaries of privacy, politicians, celebrities, and business leaders are finding themselves increasingly exposed to manipulation and misrepresentation. For Ned Nwoko, the latest controversy may just be another reminder that in today’s world, perception often travels faster than truth.
In the end, Nwoko’s clear and emphatic denial has helped restore some clarity to the situation, but it also serves as a call for collective responsibility among internet users. As he continues his work in the Senate and in community development, the lawmaker hopes that Nigerians will learn to approach viral content with discernment, seeking truth rather than sensationalism. For now, one thing is clear — there is no new wife, no secret affair, just another episode in the ever-turning wheel of social media rumor and reality.