Abuja, January 9, 2026 – Senator Ned Nwoko has strongly rejected the recent negative drug test result shared by his estranged wife, Nollywood actress Regina Daniels, insisting that "temporary abstinence is not sobriety" and that it does not invalidate prior medical findings of substance use.
In a detailed statement released on Thursday via his official channels and signed by his communication team, Nwoko cautioned the public: "DON'T BE FOOLED: TEMPORARY ABSTINENCE IS NOT SOBRIETY." He argued that a single negative test, conducted under unclear circumstances and at a time of the individual's choosing, merely indicates a period of abstinence and cannot erase documented evidence from earlier professional assessments.
Nwoko referenced reports from two independent centres in Nigeria and South Africa, which he claimed established drug and alcohol use, including MDMA (commonly known as Molly or ecstasy). "These reports were professionally compiled, formally documented, and will be presented and defended in court," the statement read, adding that the involved centres would be subpoenaed to testify. He criticised attempts to downplay MDMA, stating: "Regardless of how casually it is referenced or repackaged in language, it is a drug. Renaming it does not alter its chemical composition, its risks, or its impact on judgment and stability."
The senator further emphasised that recovery requires "sustained effort, honesty, and genuine engagement with professional support," not social media declarations. He accused the presentation of the recent test as "misleading and disingenuous," noting it does not address underlying issues or negate the need for intervention.
Nwoko recounted private efforts to support Daniels, including offers of rehabilitation, which he said failed due to denial. He referenced a court judgment that granted him custody of their two children, dismissed previous human rights abuse claims, and ordered supervised therapy for Daniels. "Senator Ned gave Regina a window to quietly seek the needed help... keeping matters out of the media," the statement noted, contrasting this with recent public actions.
The response follows Daniels' announcement earlier in the week that she voluntarily underwent a comprehensive drug screening in the United Kingdom, which returned negative for illegal substances. In an emotional video shared on social media, the actress stated the test was necessary to clear her name for the sake of her children, allowing them to "know the truth and take pride in her." She denied addiction but admitted to limited past use of ecstasy for a specific reason, threatening legal action against those spreading allegations.
This exchange marks the latest escalation in the couple's highly publicised marital crisis, which intensified in late 2025 amid mutual accusations. Daniels had previously alleged domestic violence, coercion, and isolation, while Nwoko countered with claims of substance abuse affecting her behaviour and stability. Leaked medical documents cited by Nwoko reportedly showed positive results for substances including cocaine, marijuana, morphine, and opiates, though Daniels disputed their context and authenticity.
The dispute has centred on child custody, with Nwoko maintaining that rehabilitation is essential for Daniels to maintain a meaningful relationship with their sons. He stressed that any test results, including the recent one, would face court scrutiny, potentially with an independent laboratory appointed for verification.
Public reactions have been divided, with social media buzzing over the back-and-forth. Supporters of Daniels praised her proactive step in undergoing an international test, viewing it as proof of sobriety, while others backed Nwoko's call for long-term professional intervention over performative actions.
As legal proceedings continue, both parties have invoked the courts for resolution, with Nwoko emphasising evidence-based accountability and Daniels focusing on vindication. The saga highlights the challenges of high-profile separations involving allegations of substance use and family welfare.
Observers note the case underscores broader issues around privacy, mental health, and addiction stigma in Nigeria's entertainment and political spheres. For now, the matter remains sub judice, with potential for further court-directed assessments.
