Nollywood actress Mercy Johnson has opened up about the emotional toll false news on social media is taking on her family, revealing that her children are being bullied at school as a result of baseless rumors.

The actress made the disclosure on Monday morning while discussing the negative impact of misinformation against her online. This follows recent online drama after she reportedly had a TikToker arrested for allegedly spreading defamatory content about her and her husband, as first reported by popular blogger Cutie Juls.

In a video shared on her Instagram page, Johnson explained that trolls have been labeling her a witch, leading to classmates of her children refusing to associate with them or even touch their school bags. She expressed frustration at the harm caused by false narratives, saying,

“I have kids. When you write these lies, I have teenagers who are being bullied in school because of the things that you write. There are parents who tell their kids not to let my kids touch their school bags because I’m a witch. I just need my name out of your mouth.”

Mercy further alleged that some blogs spreading false news about her may be owned by her colleagues within the Nollywood industry. She emphasized that those making allegations must prove them in court, warning that she will pursue legal action to protect her family.

“Actresses owned these blogs, colleagues owned these blogs, people who just don’t like you own these blogs, and they can be paid to say whatever. … Your lies, and propaganda are not working this side. I need no validation from anyone and I know who I am,” she said.

Opinion: The Cost of Online Falsehoods

Mercy Johnson’s revelation highlights a growing concern in the age of social media — the real-life consequences of online misinformation. While public figures are often scrutinized, it is the indirect victims, particularly children, who can suffer the most. Johnson’s stand underscores the importance of accountability, both legally and morally, for those spreading rumors online.

Her decision to publicly address the issue is a reminder that online actions have offline impacts, and protecting the emotional well-being of one’s family is a responsibility that even fame cannot shield from. In an era where social media can amplify false narratives, Mercy’s resolve to fight back legally is both a cautionary tale and a call for ethical online behavior.

Her words also serve as a lesson to both content creators and followers: celebrities are human, and attacks on their personal lives can ripple far beyond the internet — affecting children, families, and communities. Mercy’s stance is a measured and necessary assertion that privacy, truth, and family protection must come first.