Tonto Dikeh Dragged to Court Over Alleged 'Exorcism' of Schoolgirl
Nollywood actress and politician Tonto Dikeh is embroiled in a significant legal controversy following the circulation of a viral video that allegedly depicts her conducting a deliverance session on a young schoolgirl. The incident has sparked widespread outrage, with a prominent human rights lawyer stepping forward to condemn the actions as a severe violation of the child's rights and dignity.
Human Rights Lawyer Condemns 'Primitive and Reckless' Display
In a strongly worded statement released on Friday, human rights lawyer Ikechukwu Obasi described the alleged incident as a "primitive, nasty and reckless display." He expressed profound shock that a public figure who identifies as a born-again Christian could subject a minor to such treatment under the guise of religious deliverance.
"The sight of the display is even vicious to behold in the 21st century," Obasi remarked. "It is disheartening that in this contemporary Nigeria, a Nollywood actress who claims to be a repented Christian could subject an innocent child to such untoward, abusive, degrading treatment."
According to Obasi, the video shows the child being laid on bare ground and pressed against a stony surface during the ritual. He raised serious concerns about the physical risks involved, noting that the exercise occurred during the harmattan season, potentially exposing the girl to dust that could lead to respiratory issues like catarrh or other airborne infections.
Legal Violations and Constitutional Breaches Cited
The lawyer argued that the act constitutes a clear violation of the child's right to dignity, as protected under Section 11 of the Child Rights Act 2003 and Section 34 of the Nigerian Constitution. These laws safeguard children from physical, mental, and emotional abuse, as well as neglect or degrading treatment.
"Obviously, what was meted out to that innocent child constituted maltreatment, degrading treatment, and an attack on the honour and reputation of the child," Obasi stated.
While acknowledging the constitutional rights to freedom of thought, conscience, and religion, Obasi emphasized that these rights are not absolute and should never be used to justify actions that could harm minors.
Demands for Apology and Cease of Practices
Obasi has issued a stern warning to Tonto Dikeh, demanding that she:
- Immediately cease all acts of child exorcism and abusive religious practices.
- Tender an unreserved apology to the affected child and all Nigerian children within 72 hours.
- Face legal action if these conditions are not met.
Additionally, the lawyer has called upon organizations such as UNICEF and the National Human Rights Commission to investigate the matter thoroughly and ensure that children are protected from similar abusive religious practices in the future.
Public Reactions and Social Media Backlash
The incident has ignited a firestorm of reactions on social media, with many users expressing outrage and calling for accountability. Comments ranged from criticism of religious sentiments clouding judgment to demands for legal action against all involved in such practices.
One user, bessyeigbefoh, commented: "As Nigerians, we are truly not ready for accountability. Just see the comments from people. Religious sentiments has messed us up so much that we can’t tell right from wrong."
Another, hiz_supremacy, stated: "If I saw my child on the internet like this, I will sue you too."
However, some defended Dikeh or questioned the focus, with amagracie remarking: "Misplaced priority... go and fight Tinubu."
Background: Tonto Dikeh's Recent Controversies
This legal threat comes amid other controversies surrounding Tonto Dikeh. Recently, she faced mixed reactions after announcing she would host a comedy show featuring top Nigerian entertainers like AY, Gordons, and Kenny Blaq. The announcement sparked debate, given her recent rebranding as Evangelist Tonto Dikeh, with fans questioning the alignment of her spiritual persona with entertainment hosting.
The unfolding situation highlights ongoing tensions between celebrity actions, religious practices, and child protection laws in Nigeria. As the 72-hour deadline approaches, all eyes are on Tonto Dikeh's response and the potential legal ramifications that could follow.
