Peggy Ovire’s friend Rita confirms actress’s marriage crash with Frederick Leonard, revealing abuse allegations and efforts to resolve their issues privately

Nollywood actress Peggy Ovire is reportedly navigating the end of her marriage to actor Frederick Leonard, according to details shared by her long-time friend, Rita Onyekweli.

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In a video shared on social media, Rita, who has known Ovire for 22 years, alleged that Leonard asked the actress to leave their home in mid-2025.

Despite attempts to mediate the couple’s differences, including therapy sessions, their marriage reportedly failed to improve.

Rita claimed that Ovire experienced emotional abuse during the marriage, with Leonard allegedly using unprintable names and describing her as proud and disrespectful when she developed coping mechanisms. The friend added that the actress’s professional behaviour and disputes on set were influenced by the strain of her personal life.

“She was trying to protect herself, and now she is doing better after leaving the relationship,” Rita said, urging Leonard to allow Ovire to move on peacefully and focus on her career.

Fans have reacted to the revelations with sympathy for Ovire, highlighting the challenges couples face behind closed doors. Social media responses reflected concern, shock, and support for the actress’s decision to prioritise her well-being.

Rita emphasised that, as Ovire prefers to handle her issues privately, both parties should move on without public confrontation.

The actress first sparked breakup rumours after a solo Christmas photoshoot where she removed her wedding ring, a move many interpreted as a signal of marital discord.