Roby Ekpo, the Nigerian media personality, has responded to the defamation suit filed by his estranged wife Mayowa Lambe.
On Wednesday, Mayowa demanded N100 million in damages from Roby, along with a public apology and an immediate cessation of his alleged defamatory statements, which she said have subjected her to emotional distress, reputational injury, and loss of goodwill.
She argued that there is no subsisting marital relationship between them, adding that it was mutually terminated on May 11, 2025.
In a response via his legal representatives, Roby described Mayowa’s demand as excessive, unfounded, and premature.
He rejected the defamation allegations, insisting his statements were based on his personal experiences and were not made with malicious intent.
He argued that the issues stem from a complex interpersonal relationship” that cannot be reduced to a one-sided narrative, adding that he has evidence to challenge her claims.
Our Client, Mr. Robert Ekpenyong Ekpo, categorically denies the allegations as presented in your correspondence and takes strong exception to the characterisation of his statements as false, malicious, or defamatory. Your letter is noted; however, it is replete with assertions that are themselves disputed and will be rigorously challenged, the letter reads in part.
At the outset, Our Client maintains that: Any statements made by him, whether privately or on public platforms, were based on his personal experiences, understanding of events, and matters he reasonably believes to be true. At no time did he act with malice or with the intent to injure your client’s reputation.
The issues referenced arise from a complex interpersonal relationship, the facts of which cannot be selectively presented to construct a misleading narrative against our client.
Contrary to your claims, our client also possesses documentary and testimonial evidence that directly contradicts several assertions in your letter. These include communications, records of interactions, and other materials which will be presented at the appropriate time and forum.
Your demands, particularly the request for 100,000,000.00 in damages, are viewed as excessive, unfounded, and premature. Furthermore, your attempt to impose a two-day ultimatum is unreasonable and inconsistent with established legal practice, especially in a matter of this nature involving disputed facts.
He further said he will not comply with the demands and is prepared to defend himself in court, with plans to file counterclaims if legal action is taken.
He added that he may escalate the matter to the US Citizenship and Immigration Services, while insisting that all further communication be handled through legal representatives and not under pressure.
TAKE NOTICE that: 1. Our Client will not accede to your demands as presently constituted. 2. Our Client is prepared to join issues with your client before a court of competent jurisdiction, where all claims, counterclaims, and evidence will be properly examined. 3. Should your client proceed with legal action, our client will robustly defend the suit and reserve the right to file appropriate counterclaims, including, but not limited to, claims for harassment, intimidation, and reputational harm arising from false or exaggerated accusations, it continued.
- Your letter contains an admission of some of Our Client’s claims, and he reserves the right to admit it in evidence in his petition to the appropriate US government authorities, including the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services. 5. Our client also reserves the right to seek declaratory and injunctive relief as may be necessary to protect his rights and interests.
In the interest of fairness and due process, we advise that all further communication on this matter be directed through legal counsel. While our client remains open to lawful and structured resolution mechanisms, he will not be coerced into admissions or concessions under threat.”
The issue between the duo began last week after Mayowa married another man in the United States, surprising many as she was previously known to be married to Roby.
The pair, who wed in November 2015, had not publicly confirmed their separation before the new marriage surfaced.
On a recent episode of the Honest Bunch podcast, Roby spoke about challenges in their marriage and alleged that Mayowa secretly used contraceptives.
Mayowa, however, appeared unfazed, reposting Instagram quotes suggesting she is at peace with her decisions.
