Oluwatosin Enesi
Veteran Nollywood actress, Binta Ayo Mogaji, has publicly responded to recent claims made by fellow actor and ex-lover, Jibola Dabo, regarding the paternity and birth of their son.
In a strongly worded statement, Mogaji expressed deep disappointment over comments Dabo allegedly made on social media, suggesting there were considerations of aborting the child they share, now a university graduate.
Binta recounted their history, revealing that she and Jibola Dabo were romantically involved in 1987 during their time at the National Theatre in Lagos. At the time, Dabo was a dancer affiliated with either the Black Heritage or African Heritage troupe and later traveled to the United States with one of the troupes, accompanied by Becky Musa.
According to her, Dabo married an American woman named Omope and had two daughters with her, even while maintaining contact with her. She revealed that when he later returned to Nigeria, she welcomed him and even accommodated him alongside his family.
“He came back and started looking for me until he found my address in Ibadan and moved in with me. My son was born during that period, and I raised him with love and gratitude to God. Despite everything, I still respected Jibola as the person through whom my son came into my life,” she stated.
However, Mogaji noted that Dabo’s recent public statements hurt her deeply, especially as they targeted their son—whom she described as her most precious gift. “How would a father go online and talk about a possible abortion of a child who is now a graduate? Even if such a thought crossed his mind back then, why bring it up now?” she asked.
The actress acknowledged that while their lifestyles may have differed, she was present for Dabo during his most vulnerable times. She questioned his intentions and moral stance, asking rhetorically, “Is he a saint?”
Despite the pain caused by the controversy, Binta Ayo Mogaji remained thankful. “In all, I thank God for all He means to me and this most important gift He gave me. May Almighty Allah keep my son for me,” she concluded.
Her response has stirred strong emotions among fans, many of whom have praised her courage and commitment as a mother.
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