Former Nollywood power couple Damola Olatunji and Bukola Arugba have demonstrated that co-parenting can transcend personal differences as they mark another milestone in their relationship journey. The atmosphere turned notably warm when celebrated actor Olatunji sent heartfelt birthday wishes to Arugba, mother of his twin children, on her special day.
Arugba, whose birth name is Oluwabukola Grace Awoyemi, welcomed her birthday on December 19 with a profound display of Nigeria’s linguistic diversity. The talented actress expressed her gratitude to God in multiple Nigerian languages, including Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo, and Efik, symbolizing unity in diversity. Her social media message resonated with spiritual undertones as she declared her readiness for “great greatness” in the coming year.
The birthday celebration took an unexpected turn when Olatunji, despite their previous public separation, shared elegant photos of Arugba on his Instagram platform. His message carried particular significance as he addressed her formally as “OLUWABUKOLA GRACE OMO AWOYEMI,” adding the endearing title “ANIKE” (mama ibeji Taiwo and Kehinde OLATUNJI), acknowledging her role as mother to their twins.
Their relationship history has been a subject of public interest, especially following Arugba’s public service announcement clarifying misconceptions about their marital status. The actress had previously stated that, contrary to widespread belief, she was never legally married to Olatunji. This revelation came amid various speculations about their relationship’s dissolution.
The separation announcement was notably mature, emphasizing the absence of animosity and highlighting their shared commitment to co-parenting their twins. However, the journey hasn’t been without its challenges. Industry observers recall a period of subtle tension when Arugba appeared to make veiled references to Olatunji during veteran actor Olu Jacobs’ 80th birthday celebration, coinciding with circulating rumors about Olatunji’s alleged inappropriate behavior with emerging actresses.
These allegations gained traction through social media, particularly when controversial entertainment blogger Gist Lover reported on supposed issues within their relationship, including alleged family interventions. The situation became more complex with claims about Olatunji’s professional conduct, though these allegations remained unverified.
Despite these challenges, Olatunji has maintained a composed public persona. Following their separation, he shared a sophisticated photo of himself on social media, describing himself as a “grace carrier” and “man without worries,” suggesting resilience in the face of personal challenges.
The birthday exchange between these Nollywood figures represents a significant moment in their post-separation relationship. Olatunji’s choice of words, “Sending you positive energy and good vibes on your special day,” suggests an attempt to maintain a cordial relationship, particularly important given their shared responsibility for their twins.
This public display of civility between Olatunji and Arugba offers a glimpse into the complex dynamics of maintaining professional and personal relationships in Nigeria’s entertainment industry. Their situation highlights the challenges faced by public figures in managing personal relationships while under intense media scrutiny.
The story of Olatunji and Arugba continues to evolve, demonstrating that relationships, even when they change form, can maintain elements of respect and consideration, especially when children are involved. Their approach to co-parenting and maintaining civil interactions could serve as a template for others in similar situations, both within and outside the entertainment industry.
As Bukola Arugba steps into another year, the birthday wishes from her former partner suggest that while relationships may change, the bonds created through shared experiences and parenthood can endure in different forms. Their story continues to capture public interest, not just for its entertainment value, but for its lessons in handling personal relationships in the public eye with grace and maturity.
