The internet is buzzing after a fiery online exchange between Nigerian screen icon Iyabo Ojo and controversial Tanzanian blogger and activist Mange Kimambi, escalating far beyond the typical celebrity spat into a full-scale digital showdown.
The drama began when Kimambi took to Instagram to criticize Ojo’s daughter, Priscilla Ojo, and her husband, Tanzanian singer Juma Jux.
In a scathing post, the blogger accused the couple of “posting stupid things” during a politically sensitive time in Tanzania.
She further alleged that their online activity was an intentional distraction ahead of the country’s upcoming general elections, going so far as to suggest they might be on the government’s payroll.
Iyabo Ojo wasted no time in clapping back.
The Nollywood veteran issued a strongly worded response via her Instagram page, fiercely defending her daughter and slamming the accusations.
“Referring to my daughter and her husband in such a manner, calling their content stupid, is unacceptable. I don’t joke with my daughter,” Ojo wrote.
She also addressed rumors that the Tanzanian government financed her daughter’s wedding, firmly denying the claims.
“It’s not your government that gave us money. It’s a cultural tradition in my family; the wife’s family covers the cost. We Nigerians gave her a beautiful wedding, our way,” she added.
But just when fans thought the exchange had reached its climax, Mange Kimambi returned with an unexpected twist.
Rather than back down or issue an apology, Kimambi leaned into the controversy, thanking her “wakwe” (in-laws) for the attention, claiming the backlash helped amplify her political campaign.
“Natamani kuwajibu wakwe zetu kwa Priscy ila tushasema we are focused,” Kimambi posted in Swahili, translating to, “I wish to respond to our in-laws for Priscy, but we’ve said we are focused.”
She added, “Leo kila mtu kaijua No Reform No Election,” meaning “Today, everyone knows about ‘No Reform No Election.’”
Kimambi even expressed hope that the drama keeps her in the spotlight: “Tuhakikishe hawaachi kunichamba angalau 1 month ili kila mtu Africa anijue,” which translates to, “Let’s make sure they keep dragging me for at least one month so everyone in Africa gets to know me.”