Actress responds to backlash over the Tonto Dikeh school prayer video, saying she would rather face criticism than hide her Christian faith

Nigerian actress and philanthropist Tonto Charity Dikeh, founder of the Tonto Dikeh Foundation, has defended her actions after a viral Tonto Dikeh school prayer video showing her praying for a schoolgirl during an outreach programme triggered criticism on social media.

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The footage, widely circulated online in recent days, captured Dikeh conducting what she described as a deliverance prayer for the student.

The scene drew mixed reactions from viewers, with some social media users questioning whether such a spiritual session was appropriate within a school environment.

Responding to the backlash, Dikeh issued a firm statement on her social media pages, insisting that her Christian faith remains central to her life and public service.

“I would rather be mocked, ridiculed or even slain than silence the name of the one who saved me,” Dikeh wrote.

The actress reiterated the message in emphatic terms, declaring that criticism would not discourage her from openly expressing her beliefs.

“I, Evangelist Tonto Dikeh, would rather be mocked, ridiculed, or even slain than silence the name of the one who saved me. I refuse to hide or dim my light because it makes others uncomfortable,” the actress added.

According to Dikeh, the moment captured in the Tonto Dikeh school prayer video occurred during a faith based outreach event where students had gathered for evangelism activities.

Dikeh explained that the schoolgirl approached her personally after complaining about troubling experiences.

Dikeh said prayers were offered to support the student spiritually, describing the moment as a sincere attempt to provide comfort.

The actress has recently become more vocal about her religious journey.

In recent months, Dikeh publicly announced the completion of a discipleship programme at Streams of Joy International, the church led by Pastor Jerry Eze.

That announcement marked a significant milestone in what Dikeh has described as a renewed and powerful commitment to her Christian faith.

Dikeh first rose to prominence in Nollywood in the mid 2000s, starring in films including Dirty Secret, Games Fools Play and Blackberry Babes.

Beyond the screen, Dikeh has remained active in humanitarian work through the Tonto Dikeh Foundation, which focuses on social welfare and community support initiatives.

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The debate surrounding the Tonto Dikeh school prayer video has continued to generate discussion online, reflecting wider conversations in Nigeria about the intersection of faith, public life and education.