Renowned Nollywood filmmaker and director, Daniel Ademinokan, has publicly responded to recent statements made by his ex-wife, Stella Damasus, regarding the nature and circumstances surrounding their divorce, calling her narrative false and misleading.
In a strong-worded post released via his official Instagram account on June 29, 2025, Ademinokan sought to set the record straight, stating that he had maintained his silence for years out of respect and for the sake of peace but could no longer allow “silence to be mistaken for ignorance or guilt.”
The drama began after Stella Damasus claimed during a podcast interview earlier this month that she discovered she had been divorced online, without any prior warning or legal notice from Ademinokan. She painted a picture of emotional betrayal and shock, which sparked conversations online and sympathy from fans.
However, Daniel Ademinokan responded with screenshots of an email dated back to 2021, allegedly from Stella, in which she clearly asked for his address so she could send him divorce documents.
“I usually don’t dignify nonsense with a response,” he wrote. “But when silence gets mistaken for ignorance or guilt, it’s only fair to offer a quick 5-minute reality check. Today’s your lucky day.”
“Let me say this clearly: You only know how a fight begins. You can never tell how it will end. Let me be, just as I have left you in peace. I’ve chosen a more private life, so don’t drag me into your soap opera. You’ve had your five minutes from me. Over and out.”
In a more shocking revelation, Daniel also stated that his decision to leave the marriage was influenced by incidents of physical abuse involving his son, whom he had with a previous partner.
While he refrained from going into graphic detail, he hinted that the safety and mental health of his child were non-negotiable, thus forcing him to end the relationship.
“I walked away to protect my peace and the peace of my son. That’s all I will say for now,” he added.
This unexpected claim has triggered fresh reactions from fans and industry observers, with many now questioning the previously portrayed narrative.
The divorce between Stella Damasus and Daniel Ademinokan was one of Nollywood’s most talked-about unions. Their relationship, which started under controversial circumstances following Ademinokan’s separation from actress Doris Simeon, had once captured the public’s attention.
Stella, who relocated to the United States during their marriage, recently announced her return to filmmaking with her debut directorial effort, Water Girl, slated for a 2025 U.S. premiere. She had appeared to be rebranding and reintegrating into public life—until Daniel’s response shifted the spotlight once again.
Fans are now divided, with some calling for Stella to issue a clarification, while others insist both parties move on quietly.
This public dispute comes at a time when several Nigerian celebrities are becoming more open about failed relationships and marital struggles. From Tonto Dikeh to Toyin Abraham and Mercy Aigbe, Nollywood has seen a wave of public separations that continue to fuel online discourse.
Industry analysts argue that while personal transparency can be empowering, it also exposes both parties to scrutiny, especially when conflicting narratives emerge.
With email evidence now in the open and serious allegations raised, the Stella Damasus–Daniel Ademinokan divorce saga has shifted from a personal issue to a public debate about truth, image, and accountability. Whether Stella chooses to respond remains to be seen, but what’s clear is that this chapter in Nollywood’s celebrity history is far from over.