The sudden change of name by the “Most Promising Act of the Year” award winner at the 9th Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA), from Belinda Effah to Grace Charis Bassey Effah, is making tongues to wag within and outside Nigeria’s movie industry.

Some colleagues and fans are asking why the sudden change of name by the 31 years old Cross River State-born Genetics and Bio-Technology graduate from the University of Calabar.

Some insinuate fraudulent undertone while others say the Next Movie Star reality show star and former presenter of Sound City, a television musical programme, might have gotten married secretly.

But the actress has debunked the insinuations.

In a video clip posted on the social media during the week, she said the change of name was formally made since last year, only that she chose not to make it public.

“This is not a scam or fraud. The change of my name from Belinda to Grace Charis Bassey Effah was done since last year.

“All my official documents now bear the new name - my international passport, bank accounts and my boutique – all carry my new name. For instance, the name of my boutique located at Ibeju Lekki (Lagos) where we produce clothing and footwear is GCB.

“So, there’s nothing like scam or fraud behind the change of name,” she narrated.

Though she did not disclose the reason for the change of name, she promised to do another video clip in the near future in which that aspect will be addressed.

Did I hear you say we are patiently waiting?

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