Walking Away Was Freedom: Tonto Dikeh Opens Up on Leaving Toxic Marriage

Nigerian actress turned politician, Tonto Dikeh, has opened up about her past marriage, describing her decision to divorce her ex-husband, Olakunle Churchill, as one of the most pivotal choices of her life. In a candid revelation shared on her Instagram page, Dikeh recounted how a fellow single mother reached out to her, seeking advice on how to navigate the emotional challenges of separation.

The single mother, who connected with Dikeh through a direct message on Instagram, asked how she managed to cope after her ex-husband left her and their son. In response, the actress-turned-politician clarified that it was, in fact, her decision to leave the marriage. She explained that the choice to walk away was driven by the need to protect both herself and her son from a difficult and toxic environment.

“First and foremost, I was the one who chose to walk away from my marriage, not the other way around. I needed to escape a challenging situation, not just for my own sake but for my child’s well-being as well. It was the best decision I ever made,” Dikeh wrote in her response.

Further addressing her followers, Tonto shared words of encouragement for single mothers, acknowledging the complexities of navigating life as a parent after divorce. “Dear single mothers, I don’t have a manual for these things. I’m no expert in this journey. My biggest teacher has been love, and I’ve learned to let God take the lead. His grace is enough for me. Above all, remember to draw strength from God and keep your family matters private.”

Tonto Dikeh’s marriage to Churchill, which ended in 2017, was marred by allegations of infidelity and domestic violence, making headlines across the nation. Since then, Dikeh has been vocal about her experiences, offering advice and support to others facing similar challenges, while also carving a new path for herself in the world of politics and philanthropy.