Nigerian senator and businessman Ned Nwoko has dismissed claims that he married popular Nollywood actress Regina Daniels when she was 17 years old.

In a statement released by the Communication and Technical Action Team from his office, Nwoko clarified that Regina was 19 years old when they got married.

“For clarity, Regina Daniels was born on October 10, 2000. If she has been married for six years, that means she got married at 19 years old, not 17,” he said.

The lawmaker further explained that his marriage to Regina was conducted in line with traditional customs and that polygamy is not frowned upon in his culture.

“Our customs and traditions do not frown upon polygamy. What I did was to marry her honourably, give her a name, and treat her with dignity,” he added.

Nwoko emphasized that his relationship with Regina has always been public, lawful, and transparent, stating that he has shown her love and care since their union began.

“Beyond the social media lifestyle, my world revolved around Regina. I pampered her and cared for her deeply, something everyone who has worked with me can testify to,” he said.

He condemned what he described as false and politically motivated reports about his marriage, calling them an attempt to tarnish his image and undermine his political career.

“My decision to marry her properly according to tradition is now being twisted into a tool for political blackmail. This is a witch-hunt that has been ongoing for years,” he stated.

The senator representing Delta North also alleged that Regina had previously battled substance use issues, adding that some people were using her past against him.

“Her medical records are verifiable, but enemies of progress are manipulating her to achieve their aims. All the current stories being circulated are fabricated and amount to criminal defamation,” he concluded.