Veteran Nollywood actress Ronke Oshodi Oke has publicly praised her colleague Iyabo Ojo for her mature handling of co-parenting, particularly for including her ex-husband at their daughter Priscilla’s wedding ceremonies. She also weighed in on the recent controversy surrounding gospel singer Tope Alabi, urging Nigerians not to be quick to judge.
Speaking in a recent interview on Oyinmomo TV, Ronke lauded Iyabo Ojo for demonstrating strong maternal commitment over the years and showing grace by involving her children’s father in the wedding, despite their long-separated status.
“I give kudos to Iyabo Ojo,” she said. “When Priscilla and her brother were young, she took them everywhere. She’s always been a devoted mother. But when I saw Priscilla’s dad at the wedding, I respected her even more. I also learnt a valuable lesson from her.”
Ronke used the opportunity to address public backlash against Tope Alabi, whose ex-husband was reportedly absent at their daughter’s recent wedding. Many critics blamed Alabi for the exclusion, but Ronke urged caution.
“Let’s not be quick to blame Tope Alabi,” she said. “Her daughter is 27—an adult capable of making her own decisions. Perhaps she didn’t want her father present, and if she really did, she would have insisted. I’m not defending Tope entirely, but people should take it easy on her.”
The issue drew attention after photos from Priscilla Ojo’s introduction and nikah ceremony in Tanzania surfaced online with no sign of her father, sparking speculation about his possible absence due to estrangement or being uninvited.
However, Iyabo Ojo silenced critics by featuring her ex-husband, Mr. Ademidun Ojo, at both the traditional and white wedding ceremonies, earning her praise across social media for her emotional maturity and commitment to her children’s happiness.
Iyabo had previously spoken about her short-lived marriage in a podcast interview, describing it as a difficult period marked by financial hardship. She explained that, at the time, she was drawn to attention and affection—needs her ex-husband appeared to meet.
In contrast, Tope Alabi’s daughter publicly criticized her father following her wedding in March, suggesting that their relationship may be strained.
Ronke’s remarks highlight the complexities of co-parenting after separation, and she encourages empathy over judgment as public figures navigate their private lives under public scrutiny.
