Relatives of Nollywood actress Regina Daniels from the Ogwashi-Uku community in Delta State have issued a 48-hour ultimatum to her estranged husband, Senator Ned Nwoko, demanding that he accept the return of the bride price he paid for her.
The demand was contained in an open letter signed by Favour Awele Obi on behalf of the community and shared online by Regina’s brother, Sweezzy, and actor Stanley Ontop.
The letter accused Senator Nwoko of disregarding local customs and allegedly using his influence to harass and intimidate members of Regina’s family amid the couple’s ongoing marital dispute.
According to the kinsmen, Ogwashi-Uku tradition allows a woman to leave her marriage if she chooses, and the husband’s family must accept the return of the bride price to formally end the union.
“Our custom is clear — if a woman decides to leave her husband, the family must return the bride price. Once it is returned, the marriage is over,” the letter stated.
They alleged that several attempts had been made to return the payment, but Nwoko repeatedly refused to accept it. The group warned that if he continues to reject it, the money would be placed at the Ikeleke Quarter in Ogwashi-Uku, a symbolic traditional act marking the end of the marriage.
The community also condemned the alleged arrests and intimidation of Regina’s relatives, describing such actions as a violation of their customs and dignity.
The letter urged Senator Nwoko to allow peace to prevail by respecting tradition and ensuring the release of detained family members.
Earlier in the week, Regina Daniels had accused her estranged husband of ordering the arrest of her brother and sister after she declined to return to his home.
Regina and Ned Nwoko, who married in 2019, share two sons together.
As of the time of filing this report, Senator Nwoko has not publicly responded to the letter or the allegations.