Nollywood actor Babatunde Tayo, popularly known as Baba Tee, has made a dramatic U-turn by admitting that he had a sexual encounter with Dara, the wife of popular comedian and skit maker, Ijoba Lande. This revelation comes after the actor initially denied any involvement with the woman and even threatened legal action against Lande for defamation.
Baba Tee made the confession during a live interview on Sunday with socialite Esabod and other TikTok personalities. His admission has shocked many, especially since he had earlier insisted that Lande’s claims were false and baseless.
Initial Denial and Legal Threats
The controversy started when Ijoba Lande publicly accused his wife of infidelity, claiming that at least 21 men in the Nigerian entertainment industry had been involved with her. Among those he named was Baba Tee. The accusation sparked widespread discussions on social media, with many wondering if the claims were true.
At first, Baba Tee strongly refuted the allegations. He challenged Lande to provide evidence proving that he had an affair with Dara, warning that if no proof was presented, he would take legal action against the comedian for defamation. His firm stance appeared to convince some of his fans, who believed that he was being falsely accused.
Baba Tee’s Version of Events
However, in a surprising turn of events, Baba Tee admitted during the interview with Esabod that he did have a brief sexual encounter with Dara. He explained that the affair was not planned and happened as a result of alcohol and a game of ‘Truth or Dare.’
According to the 45-year-old actor, he was introduced to Dara by actress Marygold, who described her as a content creator and upcoming artiste. Baba Tee said he had no idea she was Lande’s wife at the time.
He recounted that one day, Marygold and Dara visited his house under the pretense that Marygold needed him to be the master of ceremonies (MC) for an upcoming event. However, things took an unexpected turn when they started playing the ‘Truth or Dare’ game.
He explained, “When Marygold and Dara came to my house, Marygold claimed that she wanted me to be an MC for her upcoming program. She never told me she was coming with anyone. When she introduced Dara, she called her a content creator, not Lande’s wife.
“They started asking me if I had a Qatar connection before we began playing ‘Truth or Dare.’ As soon as the game started, Marygold removed all her clothes and kept daring me. Dara was also drinking alcohol and refusing to do the tasks I asked her to do. Instead of asking me ‘Truth’ questions, they kept daring me to do things.”
Baba Tee further revealed that at some point during the game, Marygold dared Dara to have a “quick” sexual experience with him, and she agreed. He insisted that he only went along with it because he had been drinking and was under pressure from the game.
He added, “The reason I initially denied sleeping with Lande’s wife was because I did not know she was married to him. Marygold never introduced her as Lande’s wife; she only called her a content creator. I will not deny that I had a brief encounter with her. This is the first time I am admitting it. Now, I realize that it was a setup by both of them to damage my reputation.”
Reactions and Public Outrage
Following Baba Tee’s confession, social media exploded with reactions from fans, entertainment industry insiders, and critics. Many people accused the actor of lying to the public and trying to protect his image before eventually admitting the truth. Some also questioned why he would get involved in such a situation, especially given his long career in Nollywood.
Others focused on the role of Dara and Marygold in the scandal. Some Nigerians criticized Marygold for allegedly orchestrating the setup, while others blamed Dara for betraying her husband, Lande.
Some social media users also pointed out that Baba Tee’s admission raised serious moral questions, as he had earlier threatened to sue Lande for defamation when he knew the accusations were true.
Calls for Apology
During the interview, Esabod advised Baba Tee to apologize to Ijoba Lande because his initial denial had worsened the situation. She pointed out that Baba Tee’s actions amounted to betrayal, especially since he had publicly denied everything and challenged Lande to prove his claims.
Shortly after the interview, Baba Tee took to his official Facebook page to issue a public apology to Lande. In his message, he expressed deep regret for what had happened and acknowledged that he was wrong to have denied the incident in the first place.
He wrote, “I am deeply sorry from the bottom of my heart, brother, Lande. How Dara became Lande’s wife without my knowledge… Hmmm. I fear women.”
His apology, however, did little to calm the controversy. Many people criticized him for apologizing only after being caught, rather than taking responsibility from the beginning. Some also felt that his apology did not sound entirely sincere, especially since he appeared to blame the women involved rather than himself.
Ijoba Lande Yet to Respond
As of the time of writing this report, Ijoba Lande has not officially responded to Baba Tee’s apology. The comedian, who was deeply hurt by the alleged betrayal, has remained silent on social media since the actor’s confession.
It is unclear whether he will accept Baba Tee’s apology or if this controversy will lead to further drama in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Lessons and Takeaways
This scandal serves as another reminder of the dangers of extramarital affairs and the consequences of dishonesty in the public eye. It also highlights the risks involved in social games like ‘Truth or Dare,’ especially when alcohol is involved.
For Baba Tee, this controversy could have a lasting impact on his reputation. Many of his fans feel disappointed, and it remains to be seen how he will recover from the backlash.
Meanwhile, for Ijoba Lande, the situation has been a deeply personal and painful experience. Being publicly embarrassed by his wife’s alleged infidelity and then having his accusations initially denied by one of the men involved has undoubtedly added to his distress.
As this story continues to unfold, one thing is clear: the Nigerian entertainment industry never runs out of drama, and this latest scandal has only added to its long list of controversies.
