Queen of Ondo confirms Olakunle Churchill’s father wasn’t a gardener, setting the record straight years after controversial claims made by actress Tonto Dikeh during their messy separation.
Olori Dr Olayinka Kiladejo, the Queen of Ondo Town, made this known while giving a speech at the presentation of a missionary bus donated by Olakunle Churchill to St. Stephen Anglican Church Cathedral in honour of his late father, Primate Gabriel Oladunni.
She described the late Primate as a respected religious figure who was recognised by royal dignitaries and held in high esteem within and beyond the church.
This public confirmation comes as a direct response to long-standing claims that Churchill’s father worked as a gardener — a narrative pushed during his fallout with Tonto Dikeh. Back then, the actress alleged that Churchill’s late father was a gardener to former President Olusegun Obasanjo.
Reacting to the allegations, Churchill had previously debunked the claim and maintained that his father was never a gardener. He pointed out that even if his father had been one, it wouldn’t be a source of shame. “Jesus Christ was the son of a carpenter,” he stated. “Background doesn’t define destiny.” He also noted that his mother’s public photos were proof enough that she never looked like a gardener’s wife.
The confirmation by the Queen of Ondo has stirred fresh reactions online. While some believe it finally clears Churchill’s name, others feel it’s time to let the issue go.
Reactions from social media:
@chiefmayor: “When a woman is pained, she’ll do anything to tarnish your name.”
@tracy_fins: “Make una move on. King Tonto no send una papa again.”
@wiz_abdul_488: “Believe Tonto at your own risk.”
@porsh_kelly: “This woman has moved on. Make una try move on too.”
@iamakpowhe: “Even if na gardener, wetin come happen? Abi labourer no dey born president?”
@chase_emii: “E remain one thing to be confirmed, and na only his current wife fit confirm that one.”
It will be recalled that in 2020, Churchill took legal action against Tonto Dikeh, suing her for ₦500 million over statements made in a 2019 interview. She had accused him of cybercrime and domestic abuse, among other allegations. In 2021, he issued a cease-and-desist letter after more defamatory posts from Tonto, including claims that she funded his wedding to Rosy Meurer and labelled her a husband snatcher.
Tonto responded with a fiery clapback, calling Churchill mentally unstable, a deadbeat father, and a yahoo boy. She also promised to address the lawsuit within 24 hours — in her usual no-holds-barred manner.
Also Read:Foluke Daramola Salako Celebrates Olakunle Churchill for Blessing Her with a Generous Gift
