Bayelsa State Governor, Douye Diri, has dismissed rumors circulating on social media that he is responsible for reality TV star Nengi Hampson’s pregnancy.
The speculation, which has been gaining momentum online, falsely claimed that Nengi had given birth to the governor’s child, with some reports even suggesting he has four wives.
On Monday, social media was rife with claims that the 27-year-old former Big Brother Naija star was expecting a child with Governor Diri, who had appointed her as Senior Special Assistant on Girl Child Development in 2020.
In response to the rumors, the governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Samuel Oredipe, took to Facebook on Tuesday to denounce the allegations, calling them “fake news” spread by malicious individuals.
He clarified that Nengi and Governor Diri share no personal relationship beyond her official role and accused political rivals of fabricating the story to damage the governor’s reputation as his administration celebrated its fifth anniversary.
Oredipe wrote, “Political enemies of His Excellency Senator Douye Diri, Governor of Bayelsa State, are at work again. It is unfortunate that on the day the Prosperity Administration began marking its 5th anniversary, falsehoods were being spread by wicked individuals.”
“Nengi Rebecca Hampson has no personal relationship with Governor Diri. It is regrettable that those behind the fake news are unhappy with the governor’s growing political stature,” he continued.
“Nengi herself has publicly debunked these lies on social media. This is nothing more than a distraction, and it highlights the need for regulating social media usage.”
Oredipe also expressed disappointment that while the governor was inaugurating a new road in Yenagoa, social media users were spreading baseless rumors. “Governor Diri is a man of honor and dignity,” he added.
Nengi also addressed the rumors on her X (formerly Twitter) account, stating, “As much as I believe social media lies aren’t worth my time, I’ve come to accept that we live in a world where people are quick to spread lies without limits. So, let me be clear, I’m not pregnant for any governor.”
She continued, “I’ve chosen to speak because this isn’t just an attack on me; it involves people I hold in the highest regard, and I won’t allow a beautiful, personal part of my life to be turned into something ugly. While I continue to mind my business and enjoy my pregnancy in peace, I wish you all love and a happy Valentine’s weekend.”
