Daniel Etim-Effiong Opens Up on University Expulsion, Faith Crisis and Personal Rebirth

Nollywood actor Daniel Etim-Effiong has shared a deeply personal story from his past, revealing how a wrongful accusation during his university days nearly derailed his life and shook his faith.

In an interview with Taymesan, the actor disclosed that he was once expelled from the Federal University of Technology, Minna, after being falsely accused of belonging to a cult. According to him, the incident came as a huge shock, especially as he considered himself a committed Christian and an active member of a student fellowship on campus.

Etim-Effiong explained that the expulsion left him emotionally broken and confused, having been punished for something he insists he never did. After leaving Minna, he relocated to Jos, Plateau State, where he experienced a new sense of freedom — one that quickly turned destructive.

He admitted that anger and frustration pushed him into habits such as smoking and womanising, choices he now links to disappointment with life and a sense of betrayal. More painful for him, however, was how the incident strained his relationship with God.

At the time, he expected his fellowship community to stand by him or at least protest the decision, but that support never came. The silence from people he trusted deeply hurt him and contributed to his gradual withdrawal from church and Christian activities.

Recalling the moment, he said:

“That same year I got expelled from the university for belonging to cult… Which cult? I was a church boy.
It was in Jos I started smoking, womanising, because I was angry at God. I kept asking, ‘Why did you let this happen to me?’ I even told the fellowship then to protest, but nothing happened.”

Opinion: Painful Chapters Often Shape Purpose

Daniel Etim-Effiong’s story is a reminder that behind many success stories are painful, misunderstood chapters that rarely make the headlines. His experience highlights how institutional failures and lack of support systems can deeply scar young people, especially those who feel wrongly judged.

More importantly, his honesty resonates because it reflects a reality many can relate to — moments when faith is tested, trust is broken, and anger takes over. Rather than portraying himself as flawless, Etim-Effiong shows vulnerability, making his journey more human and inspiring.

Today, as a respected actor and public figure, his testimony serves as proof that setbacks do not define the future. Sometimes, the darkest seasons quietly prepare people for growth, clarity, and eventual purpose — even when the pain once felt unbearable.