Hakeem Effects recalls how an actress disrespected him on set, urging Nollywood to value crew members. His calm response highlights professionalism under pressure

Hakeem Effects has shed light on the persistent issue of disrespect on Nollywood movie sets, sharing a personal encounter that tested his patience and professionalism.

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In an exclusive chat with Saturday Beats, the award-winning special effects and make-up artist recounted a troubling experience with an actress early in his career. “She asked me to wash my hands repeatedly—about 10 times—just to frustrate me,” Hakeem said.

Despite the humiliation, he responded subtly by withholding special treatment from her, choosing instead to fan another, less-demanding actress.

His powerful response wasn’t about revenge, but about making a point without escalating tensions.

Hakeem Effects emphasized that while most actors and crew maintain a cordial relationship, there’s an underlying bias in how production teams treat crew members—often with far less respect.

The incident comes in the wake of actress Shirley Igwe’s suspension by the Actors Guild of Nigeria for allegedly slapping a make-up artist. Hakeem warns that respect must go both ways, saying, “It is not in every matter that you clap back at someone.”

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With grace and power, Hakeem Effects reminds Nollywood that no film can shine without the skilled hands behind the scenes.