A fresh controversy has emerged around Nigerian billionaire and politician, Senator Ned Nwoko, following the reported arrest of Ann, a close friend of his estranged wife and Nollywood actress, Regina Daniels.
Ann was arrested on Monday in Lagos State by police officers attached to the Ajah Police Division. The arrest has sparked public debate on social media, with family members of Regina Daniels questioning the circumstances surrounding the police action.
The incident became public after Regina Daniels’ elder brother, Sammy, shared a video of Ann’s arrest on Instagram. In the video, police officers were seen taking Ann into custody, while voices in the background questioned the reason for the arrest.
According to Sammy, the police officers arrived with a court order authorising Ann’s arrest and detention. He said the allegations listed in the court order included conspiracy, assault, and theft.
However, Sammy strongly denied the claims and insisted that Ann had no connection to Senator Nwoko’s residence or personal property.
“There was no time Ann was ever at Ned’s house,” Sammy wrote in his Instagram post. “So how is there a court order to detain her for conspiracy, theft, and all? Omo. Nigeria has failed us.”
His post quickly gained attention online, drawing reactions from fans, social commentators, and supporters of both sides. Many expressed concern over what they described as the growing use of law enforcement in personal and family disputes involving powerful individuals.
As of the time of filing this report, neither Senator Ned Nwoko nor the Nigeria Police Force had released an official statement explaining the details of the arrest or the specific allegations against Ann.
Sources familiar with the situation said Ann was picked up peacefully and taken to the police station for questioning. It is not yet clear whether she has been formally charged or released on bail.
The arrest is believed to be linked to an ongoing family dispute between Regina Daniels and Senator Nwoko, which became public about two months ago. At the time, the actress made social media posts accusing the senator of abuse and domestic violence, claims that drew widespread attention and controversy.
Following those allegations, reports emerged that some of Regina Daniels’ relatives and close associates had been invited or arrested by security agencies. The situation has continued to raise questions about the use of legal and security systems in resolving domestic and marital conflicts.
Regina Daniels, who married Ned Nwoko in 2019, is one of Nollywood’s most popular actresses. Her marriage to the much older senator attracted national and international attention, with many Nigerians closely following developments in their relationship.
Senator Ned Nwoko, a former member of the House of Representatives and current senator representing Delta North, is also a well-known public figure. He is known for his wealth, political influence, and strong views on social and legal issues.
The current situation has further divided public opinion. While some social media users believe the law should take its course if there is evidence of wrongdoing, others argue that Ann’s arrest appears suspicious, especially given her reported lack of access to the senator’s home.
Human rights advocates have also weighed in, urging the police to act professionally and ensure that no citizen’s rights are violated.
“No one should be arrested without clear evidence,” said a Lagos-based human rights lawyer. “If there is a court order, the public deserves to know the facts behind it. The police must not be seen as taking sides in private disputes.”
Others called for calm and advised the public to avoid jumping to conclusions until investigations are completed.
The phrase “Nigeria has failed us,” used by Regina Daniels’ brother, has since sparked wider discussion online about trust in the justice system. Many Nigerians shared similar frustrations, citing past cases where influential individuals were perceived to have undue advantage over ordinary citizens.
For now, Ann remains at the centre of the controversy, with her supporters demanding her immediate release if no strong evidence is found against her.
Regina Daniels herself has not made a fresh public statement on the arrest of her friend. However, fans continue to watch her social media accounts closely for any reaction.
The Lagos State Police Command has also remained silent, though observers expect an official briefing in the coming days due to the high-profile nature of the case.
As investigations continue, the case adds to the growing list of celebrity-related legal disputes in Nigeria that often play out in the public eye. It also highlights the wider issues of power, influence, and access to justice in the country.
