- Daniel Etim-Effiong shares father’s prison story
- Linked to 1986 Vatsa coup but denied involvement
- Escaped execution, later served 34 years in jail
- Granted presidential pardon in 2020
Nollywood actor Daniel Etim-Effiong has opened up about his father’s ordeal, revealing he spent 34 years in prison after being linked to the 1986 Vatsa coup despite maintaining his innocence.
Daniel Etim-Effiong shared the emotional story during an interview, recounting how his father, Moses Effiong, a retired lieutenant colonel, was arrested when he was just one year old.
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The arrest came shortly after Ibrahim Babangida took over power in 1985 from Muhammadu Buhari, during a tense period in Nigeria’s military history.
According to the actor, his father was implicated in the alleged coup linked to Mamman Vatsa after a colleague mentioned his name under interrogation.
“They asked him who he told about the coup, and he mentioned my dad.”
Etim-Effiong explained that his father was tried and initially sentenced to death by firing squad for alleged treason.
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“I was one year old when he was arrested and tried for complicity… for a coup against President Ibrahim Babangida.”
He recounted how his father narrowly escaped execution in a chilling moment where some detainees were separated from others who were later killed.
“They took those going on transfer to the back of Kirikiri and shot them. That is how they died.”
His father’s sentence was later reduced to life imprisonment, and he remained behind bars for 34 years before receiving a presidential pardon in 2020.
Beyond his family story, Etim-Effiong also spoke about his career and recent film project, expressing excitement over its reception.
“I am ecstatic… I have not got one bad review as of today.”
The actor noted that the film, inspired by insecurity and highway attacks in Nigeria, reflects his personal concerns about safety in the country.
“I would love to take road trips with my kids, but because of the fear of hijackers… I won’t dare.”
The project went on to earn multiple nominations at the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, highlighting his growing influence as both an actor and filmmaker.
