Filmmaker Kunle Afod has spoken about the ongoing conversation around sexual harassment in Nollywood, urging those making allegations to back their claims with specific names and verifiable details.
Speaking on the Nollywood on Radio show, Afod pushed back against the wave of generalised accusations that have cast a shadow over the Nigerian film industry.
According to him, the only way to address such serious issues is through accountability and transparency.
“One thing I tell people: bring out those that said they raped them in the industry,” he said firmly. “Don’t just make sweeping statements. Let’s see names, let’s see facts.”
Afod acknowledged that romantic advances and personal relationships do exist in the industry, but insisted that such scenarios are not exclusive to Nollywood.
Instead, he framed them as part of the broader reality of adult interactions in various professional settings.
“We are adults. There is consent. If you attend school, they will likely ask you out. If you are a nurse, doctors might ask you out. Patients might ask you out. If you like, you agree,” he explained.
Drawing comparisons with other sectors, Afod noted that the line between personal interest and professional opportunity can often blur—but emphasized that it is not inherently exploitative unless coercion is involved.
“We have bankers who are looking for targets. If the man you’re going to meet asks you out and you like him, you agree. And you meet your target. It’s the same thing. It’s not their problem,” he said.
Using a sports analogy, Afod highlighted the competitive nature of the entertainment industry, suggesting that people sometimes try to gain an edge by any means available.
However, he cautioned against assuming that all success stories in Nollywood are built on manipulation.
“If I am a coach and I have 21 players, I’ll only use 11. Maybe 14 are good. If you want to get your way, you might use what you have to get what you want. That’s what the girls say. Use what you have. But it’s not every girl.”
Afod, who has spent over two decades in the industry, stressed that true talent remains the most important currency in Nollywood.
He dismissed the notion that anyone could thrive solely through transactional relationships.
“Let me tell you the truth—your talent will always be ahead in everything. If you are not good and you sell your body, you’re wasting your time,” he stated.
“Because they will not use you. But if you’re talented and you stand your ground, that talent will still bring you to the top.”
As part of his message, Afod also encouraged aspiring actresses to take control of their careers by funding and producing their own films.
He highlighted this as a practical solution for avoiding industry politics and unwanted advances.
“Let everybody have their own money and produce their own movies,” he urged. “It’s that simple. In Nigeria, everybody can produce. You can create your own opportunity.”
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