Nollywood actress Eniola Ajao has finally addressed long-standing speculations linking her romantically to her senior colleague, Odunlade Adekola.
The actress, who recently came under renewed scrutiny after a video from the burial of Odunlade’s father surfaced online, was seen seemingly avoiding the camera. The clip quickly went viral, reigniting gossip about an alleged romantic affair between the two actors.
Taking to her Instagram story on Wednesday, Ajao decided to speak out, setting the record straight and reaffirming her stance against what she described as deliberate attempts to malign her character.
For several years, Ajao has been repeatedly linked to Adekola, one of the most celebrated figures in Yoruba Nollywood.
While neither party has ever confirmed any form of romantic involvement, the speculation has persisted, with blogs and online commentators regularly reviving the narrative whenever they are seen together in public or appear in the same projects.
Read Also: ‘He loves me’, Tiwa Savage fuels dating rumours with Usher
In her statement, Ajao said she has come to understand that it is impossible to respond to every rumor. Instead, she urged her followers and critics alike to focus on her works and achievements rather than unverified claims.
“You can’t fix every lie and rumour, nor can you defend yourself every time. Just be great. People may destroy your image, stain your personality, but they can’t take away your good deeds because no matter how they describe you, you will still be admired by those who know you better,” she wrote.
She further noted that she has made peace with the fact that public figures are often easy targets for gossip. According to her, constantly trying to prove innocence or debunk untrue stories only gives room for more distractions.
“Life hits differently when you stop trying to prove you didn’t do that, or you are not like that,” she added.
Her comments come at a time when celebrity culture in Nigeria is under constant social media scrutiny. With Nollywood stars frequently the subject of gossip blogs and online commentary, many find themselves battling narratives that overshadow their professional accomplishments.
Despite the swirling controversy, Ajao continues to enjoy a flourishing career. She has become one of the most sought-after actresses in the Yoruba movie industry, featuring in dozens of hit films and collaborating with some of the biggest names in Nollywood. Beyond her acting career, she has also taken on roles as a producer and brand ambassador, further cementing her influence in the entertainment industry.
The latest round of rumors has also sparked reactions from her fans, many of whom have applauded her for addressing the matter with maturity. Several supporters took to social media to express admiration for her resilience, reminding critics that gossip and unverified stories are an unavoidable part of stardom.
For Ajao, the focus remains on her craft rather than on controversies. By publicly addressing the issue once more, she has made it clear that while her image may be subjected to rumors, her dedication to her career and her good deeds will continue to speak louder.
