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The ongoing marital crisis between Nollywood stars Frederick Leonard and Peggy Ovire has taken a fresh turn following comments made by the actor’s legal representative, who has now publicly addressed allegations surrounding their separation.
Barrister Rita Amy, who is said to be representing Frederick Leonard, spoke in a video that has been circulating on social media, where she addressed claims about the actor’s marriage, the divorce process, and rumours linking him romantically to another actress.
The lawyer alleged that efforts to formally dissolve the marriage have been delayed, claiming that certain customary requirements necessary to complete the separation have not been fulfilled.
According to her, Leonard has already indicated his desire to end the marriage through the appropriate traditional channels. However, she alleged that the process has stalled because the actress’ family has not returned the bride price, which is traditionally regarded in many Nigerian cultures as part of the customary divorce procedure.
Speaking on the matter, Barrister Amy maintained that Leonard had taken steps to ensure the process was handled properly but insisted that there had been resistance from the other side.
She further questioned Peggy Ovire’s approach to the legal proceedings, particularly regarding her representation in court.
In the video, the lawyer claimed that when Leonard’s legal team appeared before the court, Ovire allegedly attended without legal representation.
“Peggy, when Frederick’s lawyer came to court, where was your lawyer? Nowhere to be found. You appeared in court without a lawyer. Why, though, if I may ask? You do not want the divorce. See, tell yourself the truth,” she stated.
The legal practitioner also argued that no court in Nigeria could compel an individual to remain in a marriage against their wishes, stressing that Leonard has the right to seek the dissolution of the union if he no longer wishes to continue with it.
“Frederick asked your father to return the bride price. It is very customary. It is very legal. But you said no, come to the court to collect the bride price. There is no court of competent jurisdiction in Nigeria that would force a man to stay married where he does not want to marry,” she added.
Aside from addressing the divorce proceedings, Barrister Amy also responded to rumours suggesting that Leonard was involved in a romantic relationship with actress Nkiru Umeh.
The speculation has circulated online in recent weeks, with some social media users alleging that a relationship between the two actors may have contributed to the collapse of Leonard’s marriage.
However, the lawyer firmly dismissed the claims, insisting that there is no romantic connection between Leonard and Umeh.
According to her, both actors have maintained a cordial and professional relationship for well over a decade, dating back to 2012. She described reports of an alleged affair as baseless and lacking evidence.
The comments come only days after Peggy Ovire sparked discussions online with a series of posts interpreted by many followers as subtle references to her troubled marriage.
Observers also noticed that the actress removed Leonard’s surname from her social media profile, a move that further fueled speculation that the relationship had irretrievably broken down.
Since news of their separation emerged, fans of the couple have continued to express shock, especially considering the public affection both actors displayed during the early years of their marriage.
As the controversy continues to unfold, neither Peggy Ovire nor her representatives have publicly responded to the latest allegations made by Frederick Leonard’s lawyer.
With both parties yet to issue a joint statement regarding the status of the marriage, many followers remain eager to see whether a reconciliation is possible or if the divorce proceedings will eventually be concluded.
For now, the situation remains one of the most talked-about relationship stories in Nollywood, with fans closely monitoring developments as new claims and counterclaims continue to emerge.
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