Nollywood Actress Ekene Umenwa Breaks Silence with Prayer Amid Criticism
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Ekene Umenwa has broken her silence in the face of mounting criticism on social media, sharing a video of a powerful prayer session for the new week. The move comes amid allegations from a US-based Nigerian woman and former best friend Deacon Famous, who have accused her of misconduct and betrayal, sparking widespread backlash online.
Allegations and Accusations Fuel Drama
The controversy began when an American-based Nigerian woman, who had invited Umenwa to the United States, went viral with claims that the actress repaid her kindness with betrayal. In a video, the woman alleged that Umenwa made disparaging remarks about her colleagues, including stating that fellow actress Destiny Etiko beats her mother. This accusation has added fuel to the fire, drawing intense scrutiny from fans and critics alike.
Adding to the drama, Deacon Famous, Umenwa's former close friend, publicly called her out for alleged betrayal. He claimed that after sending her a script and traveling with his crew, she ghosted him and failed to show up. Furthermore, Deacon Famous accused Umenwa of being rude to his spiritual mother over the phone, warning that if he vanished, she would be held responsible. These allegations have compounded the negative attention surrounding the actress.
Umenwa's Response Through Prayer
On Monday, February 16, 2026, Ekene Umenwa responded to the criticism by sharing a video of herself praying for a triumphant new week for both her and her fans. In the video, she declared, "This new week, the Lord will raise a standard for you against your enemy." In her caption, she acknowledged God's unchanging nature, writing, "When it is good you are God and when it is bad you are still God, nothing absolutely nothing changes." This spiritual post marks her first public address since the allegations surfaced, aiming to shift focus from the controversy to her faith.
Social Media Backlash Intensifies
Despite her prayerful response, Umenwa's video has triggered a wave of backlash on social media platforms. Many users flooded her comment section with taunts and criticisms, questioning the sincerity of her religious lifestyle. Comments ranged from accusations of hypocrisy to calls for her to address the allegations directly. For instance, one user remarked, "Even when you are praying you still throwing shade," while another labeled her "Gossips baby." This reaction highlights the ongoing public skepticism and the divisive nature of the situation.
In a twist, Deacon Famous has also defended Umenwa in the past, particularly regarding an incident at her wedding where she knelt for singer Moses Bliss. He clarified that her gesture was one of reverence to God and the grace upon Bliss, not worship of the singer. This defense adds a layer of complexity to the narrative, showing that opinions on Umenwa remain mixed among her peers and the public.
The unfolding drama underscores the challenges celebrities face in managing their public image amid controversies, with Umenwa's prayer session serving as both a personal refuge and a public statement in turbulent times.
