By Thomas Abidoye
Iyabo Ojo – Popular Nigerian actress Iyabo Ojo has firmly rejected claims circulating on social media that she introduced her goddaughter, Fola Tinubu, to Kayamata, a traditional substance often associated with sexual attraction or charm.
The controversy originated from posts by an anonymous blogger known as Gistlover.
The blogger alleged that Fola Tinubu had been involved in relationships with several men, including actor Kunle Afolayan, whom the post claimed she became pregnant for.
In the same reports, Gistlover accused Iyabo Ojo of providing Fola Tinubu with Kayamata to aid in attracting or influencing men.
In response, Iyabo Ojo addressed the allegations directly through a series of posts on her Instagram story. She described the claims as completely false and emphasized her personal stance against such substances.
Iyabo Ojo stated that she does not patronize or use Kayamata in any form.
She explained that Fola Tinubu is an adult capable of making her own decisions, and she does not monitor or interfere in her goddaughter’s personal life.
The actress noted that she maintains a strict and busy lifestyle and does not engage in discussions about intimate or romantic matters with her goddaughters.
She described the specific accusation from Gistlover, that she gave Fola Tinubu any form of Kayamata, as a complete fabrication and falsehood.
Iyabo Ojo clarified that she has no knowledge of who Fola Tinubu is dating, has never inquired about her relationships, and has never provided her with any substance or item intended for sexual or romantic purposes.
She reiterated that she personally does not use Kayamata and therefore could not introduce or give it to anyone else.
Kayamata refers to a category of herbal or traditional preparations popular in some Nigerian circles, often marketed for enhancing attraction, love, or relationships. Discussions around such items frequently appear in celebrity gossip and social media debates, though their efficacy remains unverified and controversial.
Who is Iyabo Ojo?
Iyabo Ojo, born Alice Iyabo Ogunro on December 21, 1977, in Lagos State, Nigeria, is one of Nollywood’s most recognizable and influential figures. Her father originates from Abeokuta in Ogun State, while she was raised in Lagos.
She is the youngest of three children, with two older brothers. She completed her secondary education at National College in Gbagada, Lagos, before earning a Higher National Diploma (HND) in Estate Management from Lagos State Polytechnic.
Iyabo Ojo entered the Nigerian film industry in 1998and has since built an extensive career spanning over two decades. She is celebrated for her versatile roles in Yoruba and English-language films, often portraying strong, dramatic characters.
Beyond acting, she has ventured into film production, directing, and scriptwriting, contributing to numerous projects that have helped shape contemporary Nollywood.
Known professionally as Iyabo Ojo (and sometimes affectionately called “Queen Mother” or “Olori” by fans), she is also recognized for her philanthropy, business endeavors, and advocacy in the entertainment sector.
She has been involved in various social causes and maintains a significant presence on social media, where she engages with followers on topics ranging from career advice to personal empowerment.
Iyabo Ojo was previously married and has children, including daughters who have occasionally appeared in the public eye. She remains a prominent voice in Nollywood, often speaking on industry issues, mentorship, and the responsibilities that come with fame.
Iyabo Ojo has built an impressive career in Nollywood, starring in over 150 films since her debut in the late 1990s. She began with her first role in the English-language film Satanic in 1998 and transitioned into Yoruba cinema with Baba Darijinwon in 2002.
Among her notable productions as an actress and producer are Okunkun Biribiri (2010), where she played Olori Asake, and Astray (2016), in which she portrayed Mofe. More recent highlights include her roles in high-profile projects such as Gangs of Lagos (2023) as Mama Oba, Merry Men 3: Nemesis (2023) as Dep Stella, and Labake Olododo (2025) in the lead role of Labake. Other significant appearances feature her in Between Lies (2024) as Felicia Coker, Shattered Innocence (2023) as Mummy Theresa, and Pain to Petals (2025), alongside veteran actor Kanayo O. Kanayo.
Through her work, she has often taken on strong, dramatic characters in both Yoruba and mainstream Nigerian films, contributing to the industry’s growth while also producing more than 14 of her own projects since starting with Bolutife in 2004.
Over the years, Iyabo Ojo has been linked to several public controversies that have drawn media attention.
In recent times, she has faced allegations related to cyberbullying and threats, including a 2025 police summons over claims of cyberbullying and reports of receiving threatening letters before incidents such as a fire at her office.
She has also been involved in legal disputes, including court proceedings initiated in 2024 against colleague Liz Anjorin over alleged libelous statements, as well as warnings against stalking and threats to her family.
Additionally, in 2025, she was questioned by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) regarding alleged currency abuse involving naira spraying at her daughter’s wedding.
