“Actresses Who Don’t Want Affairs for Movie Roles Should Produce Their Own Films” – Kunle Afod

Veteran Yoruba actor and filmmaker Kunle Afod has weighed in on the controversial topic of sexual favors in exchange for movie roles in the Yoruba film industry. In a recent interview on Seun Oloketuyi TV’s YouTube channel, Afod dismissed the widespread claims of sexual coercion in Nollywood, urging anyone with real experiences to step forward and speak up.

Afod directly addressed the allegations, challenging those making such claims to name names and provide concrete evidence. “If these things truly happen, the actresses involved should be bold enough to mention names and give details,” he stated. “That’s the only way the public can know whether these allegations are true or just rumors.”

He acknowledged that romantic relationships can naturally form in any professional setting, including the movie industry, drawing comparisons to other fields like medicine and banking. However, he was clear that mutual relationships should not be confused with manipulation or coercion. “Dating within the industry is normal—it happens everywhere,” he said. “But saying someone was forced into it is a serious accusation. It needs to be proven.”

Afod emphasized that genuine talent is what truly sustains a career in Nollywood. He argued that personal connections or romantic involvement won’t guarantee longevity if an actress lacks the necessary skill. “Even if an actress sleeps with someone to get a role, if she’s not talented, she won’t last,” he said. “Producers and directors want to work with skilled actors, not just pretty faces.”

In what has become a highly debated part of the interview, Afod proposed that actresses who want to avoid such alleged pressures should take control of their careers by producing their own films. “An actress who isn’t willing to have an affair for movie roles should go ahead and produce her own movies—it’s as simple as that,” he said.

Afod’s statements have sparked a wave of reactions online, reigniting discussions about ethics, power imbalance, and gatekeeping in Nollywood. He ended by reiterating his call for transparency and the need for real victims to speak out to help cleanse the industry.

So far, no actress has responded publicly to his remarks.