Veteran Nollywood actress, Stella Damasus, has shared the intriguing story behind her family’s name changed during the Nigerian Civil War. Speaking in an interview earlier today, she revealed that her surname was originally “Ojukwu,” but it was changed to “Damasus” during the war to protect her family from targeted attacks and criticism.
Stella explained that the association with the late Biafran warlord, General Odumegwu Ojukwu, made her family vulnerable to violence. In the heat of the conflict, the family made the decision to adopt a different name to avoid potential harm.
Stella Damasus emphasised the extent to which her family went to protect themselves during the civil war.
“When I was growing up, I was told our original surname was Ojukwu. During the Biafran war, people in my family were attacked in Asaba because they thought we were connected to the same Ojukwu,” she recounted.
Stella further clarified her current surname, Damasus, during the conversation.
“Damasus is my grandfather’s first name. It’s a Greek name. When I asked why the change happened, this was the reason I was given,” she said.
Noting the widespread misconception about her family’s identity, Stella stated that the story often catches people off guard but is a crucial part of her family’s survival history.
This revelation adds to the storied career of the award-winning actress, known not only for her contributions to Nollywood but also for her open discussions about her personal life and cultural heritage.
While Stella’s story offers a glimpse into Nigeria’s historical complexity, her narratives highlight the nuanced ways in which public figures navigate personal and cultural challenges.
