Freddie Leonard’s Lawyer Accuses Peggy Ovire Of Stalling Divorce Process

The ongoing marital dispute between Nollywood stars Freddie Leonard and Peggy Ovire has taken a new turn following public statements made by Leonard’s legal representative, Barrister Rita Amy.

In a video shared online, Barrister Amy accused Ovire of deliberately delaying the formal dissolution of the marriage. The legal counsel claimed that Ovire’s family has repeatedly declined to return the traditional bride price, a customary requirement for legally and traditionally finalising a separation in Nigeria.

The lawyer also strongly dismissed widespread social media rumours linking Leonard to his colleague, Nkiru Umeh.

According to the lawyer Amy, she and the two entertainers have maintained a standard professional friendship since 2012, asserting that allegations of infidelity are completely baseless.

Addressing the actress directly in the video statement, the defence counsel challenged Ovire’s approach to the ongoing legal proceedings.

“Peggy, when Frederick’s lawyer came to court, where was your lawyer? Nowhere to be found. You appeared in court without a lawyer. Why, though, if I may ask? You do not want the divorce. See, tell yourself the truth… Frederick asked your father to return the bride price. It is very customary. It is very legal. But you said no, come to the court to collect the bride price. There is no court of competent jurisdiction in Nigeria that would force a man to stay married where he does not want to marry.”

The public remarks come shortly after Ovire made several posts on her social media handles alleging marital misconduct and subsequently removed Leonard’s name from her official profile. Representatives for Ovire have not yet issued a formal legal response to the claims made by Leonard’s counsel.