Mahmoud Muhammad Kano
The controversy exploded late Friday night when Hafsat Kamal, wife of businessman Salim Goje, went live on Instagram. She claimed to be exposing her husband’s alleged relationships with several women and displayed screenshots and videos she said were proof.
During the livestream, Hafsat alleged conversations between Salim Goje and Kannywood actress Hadiza Gabon. Screenshots purporting to show WhatsApp chats between the two began circulating widely, including claims that Hadiza discussed travel plans to Saudi Arabia and asked Salim to fund a flight ticket.
As of now, the authenticity of the screenshots has not been independently verified. Cybersecurity experts and observers note that display names and chat screenshots can be manipulated, so definitive proof is still missing. Hadiza Gabon has not issued any public response at the time of filing this report.
Hafsat also accused other women, some allegedly married, of having relationships with Salim. She further claimed that Salim’s first wife, Shafa Ardo, used spiritual means to prevent her from having children — an allegation Shafa has since denied.
Another clip online allegedly shows Salim Goje trying to access Hafsat’s home after the livestream started, but the house was reportedly locked. In the broadcast, Hafsat sounded panicked, repeatedly telling viewers to “lock the window, lock the door,” claiming unknown persons were trying to enter.
Salim’s first wife, Shafa Ardo, fired back on social media. In screenshots shared online, she wrote that Hafsat “is not a woman who keeps secrets” and that the issues Hafsat accused others of “happened before you were married.” Shafa also said the reason for Hafsat’s infertility “has nothing to do with me.”
Salim Goje has not directly addressed the allegations. Late Thursday night he posted in Fulfulde on Facebook: “Allah hokka kowa no wada. Amin.” — “May Allah guide everyone to what is good. Amen.” The post drew both sympathy and calls for him to handle family matters privately.
Hadiza Gabon is one of Kannywood’s most respected actresses, with nearly 3 decades in the industry. She also hosts “Gabon Talkshow,” a popular interview program. Observers say if the allegations are proven true, they could affect her public image. If false, they could damage her reputation unfairly.
The livestream pulled thousands of viewers instantly. On X/Twitter, reactions split: some expressed disappointment, saying public figures should uphold higher standards. Others urged caution, warning that “anyone can use another person’s name or picture online” and demanding proper evidence before judgment.
As with most viral scandals, memes, jokes, and commentary flooded social media. The episode became trending material, with users debating ethics, marriage, privacy, and the dangers of airing family disputes online.
The incident reignited debate in northern Nigeria about privacy, consent, and “trial by social media.” Legal analysts note that sharing private chats without consent can raise defamation and privacy concerns, regardless of the marital dispute behind it.
Kannywood has faced scrutiny before over conduct of its stars. Industry watchers say the industry’s credibility often gets tied to the personal lives of its top names. A prolonged controversy involving Hadiza Gabon could shift public perception of the sector.
Three things remain unresolved: 1) Hadiza Gabon’s official statement, 2) Independent verification of the leaked chats, 3) Salim Goje’s full account. Until those come, the story remains allegations and counter-allegations playing out in public.
Three things remain unresolved: 1) Hadiza Gabon’s official statement, 2) Independent verification of the leaked chats, 3) Salim Goje’s full account. Until those come, the story remains allegations and counter-allegations playing out in public.
Beyond the personalities involved, the saga highlights how quickly private marital conflicts can become national conversation once social media is involved. For public figures and ordinary citizens alike, it’s a reminder that digital exposure is instant, but reputational damage can last much longer.
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