Nollywood actress Destiny Etiko has taken legal action against fellow actress Queeneth Hilbert, filing a N100 million petition over allegations that she snatched colleagues’ boyfriends.
The controversy erupted after Hilbert publicly accused Etiko on social media of having an affair with her wealthy boyfriend, as well as being involved with other partners of their industry colleagues.
The claims quickly gained attention, sparking heated discussions among fans and industry insiders. However, Etiko has firmly denied the accusations and is now demanding legal redress to clear her name.
In response to Hilbert’s allegations, Etiko, through her legal representatives, issued a petition demanding that Hilbert retract her statements within 48 hours and issue a public apology.
The petition, filed on Saturday, asserts that Hilbert’s claims are defamatory and damaging to Etiko’s reputation. “These allegations are not only false but have been made with malicious intent to tarnish my client’s image,” the cease-and-desist letter reads.
Etiko’s legal team emphasized that failing to meet these demands would result in further legal action.
The legal representatives, Chisom Onugah and C.C. Nwabundo, also stated that Etiko is seeking N100 million in damages for the reputational harm caused by the accusations.
They argued that the false claims had subjected their client to public ridicule and professional harm, stating, “Such baseless accusations have the potential to cause irreparable damage to Ms. Etiko’s career, personal life, and standing within the industry.”
The petition underscores that legal consequences will follow if Hilbert does not comply with the demands within the given timeframe.
Sharing a copy of the legal letter on her Instagram page, Etiko doubled down on her denial, insisting that Hilbert fabricated the claims for personal gain.
“It is disheartening to see people stoop so low just for attention and material benefits,” she wrote. She maintained that she has always conducted herself with integrity and does not engage in such behavior.
Etiko also reassured her fans and followers that she would not allow her name to be dragged through baseless controversies without a fight.
As the legal battle unfolds, many within the Nollywood industry and beyond are closely watching to see how the case will be resolved. If Hilbert does not issue a retraction and apology within the stipulated time, Etiko’s legal team may move forward with more severe legal action.
The case serves as a reminder of the serious implications of public accusations and the increasing use of legal measures to address defamation in the entertainment industry.
