A legal dispute is unfolding between Nigerian media personality Robert Ekpo, widely known as Roby Ekpo, and his estranged wife, Mayowa Lambe, following allegations of defamation and reputational harm.
A cease-and-desist notice dated 22 April, issued by Aunt Landa’s Bethel Foundation Legal Department on behalf of Lambe, accuses Ekpo of disseminating false and damaging claims about her across public platforms, including podcast appearances. The notice describes his actions as a “deliberate and sustained campaign of falsehood,” alleging that he presented unverified assertions about Lambe’s personal life as factual.
According to the foundation, these statements have triggered widespread online harassment, ridicule, and reputational damage directed at their client. The legal team is demanding that Ekpo remove all allegedly defamatory content, issue a public retraction and apology, and pay ₦100 million in damages. Failure to comply within 48 hours, the notice warns, could result in immediate legal proceedings. It also cautions that third parties who continue to circulate the claims may face legal consequences.
Background to the Dispute
The development follows heightened public attention after Ekpo’s recent appearance on The Honest Bunch podcast, where he spoke emotionally about the breakdown of his marriage.
Reports indicate that Ekpo and Lambe met via Instagram in 2015 and married shortly after a brief courtship. Their relationship had largely remained private until recent revelations that Lambe had remarried in the United States—news that surprised many observers, as neither party had publicly confirmed a separation.
During the podcast, Ekpo recounted challenges within the marriage, citing disagreements over intimacy and difficulties related to having children. He claimed that while he underwent medical testing over fertility concerns, his partner was allegedly using contraceptives without his knowledge. He also stated that he provided financial support to Lambe during her years abroad, sending her money consistently for over six years.
Describing the moment he learned of her remarriage, Ekpo said he was confronted with social media posts showing his wife marrying another man, an experience he characterized as deeply painful.
Legal Counterclaims
However, the cease-and-desist notice disputes the accuracy of these assertions, maintaining that the marriage had already been mutually dissolved prior to the events Ekpo described. It further accuses him of using public platforms to air private matters in a way that could mislead audiences and generate public sympathy at Lambe’s expense.
The foundation added that the controversy has fueled coordinated defamatory commentary and online trolling targeting Lambe.
Public Reactions Continue
The situation has sparked ongoing debate across social media, with opinions sharply divided between supporters of both parties. While Ekpo has openly shared his perspective, Lambe has largely refrained from direct engagement, instead posting messages suggesting a sense of peace with her decisions.
As of the time of this report, Ekpo has not issued a public response to the legal notice.