Veteran Nollywood actor Kunle Afod has stirred controversy by challenging the widespread claims of sexual exploitation in Nollywood, urging accusers to provide specific names and evidence

Veteran Nollywood actor and director Kunle Afod has ignited a debate within the Nigerian film industry and among the public with his recent remarks concerning the ongoing allegations of sexual exploitation in Nollywood.

Also read: Kunle Afod shares life lessons, future plans in Nigerian entertainment

During an interview on Nollywood on Radio, Afod questioned the validity and extent of the accusations, emphasizing the importance of specific evidence and highlighting personal agency and talent as the primary drivers of success in the industry.

Responding to the increasing public discourse surrounding sexual misconduct within the entertainment sector, Afod dismissed broad accusations of widespread abuse as detrimental to Nollywood’s reputation.

He asserted, “If someone claims they were raped in the industry, let them name who did it. Don’t just throw accusations around that stain the entire industry. Bring names. Bring proof.”

Afod’s statements have elicited a mixed response. While some view his call for concrete evidence as a necessary step towards ensuring accountability, others are concerned that his comments may downplay the seriousness of exploitation, particularly within an industry known for its inherent power imbalances.

In the interview, Afod drew a parallel between romantic advances in Nollywood and those in other professions, suggesting that such interactions often involve mutual consent and are not unique to the film industry.

If someone claims they were raped in the industry, let them name who did it. Don’t just throw accusations around that stain the entire industry. Bring names. Bring proof.” – Kunle Afod

“We are adults. There is consent,” he stated. “If you attend school, they will likely ask you out. If you are a nurse, doctors might ask you out. If you are a banker, your client might ask you out. It’s the same thing. It’s not a Nollywood problem; it’s life.”

Furthermore, Afod suggested that some aspiring actors and actresses might leverage personal attributes to gain opportunities, but ultimately emphasized the primacy of talent.

“Without talent, even selling your body won’t get you far,” he said. “Your talent will always be ahead in everything. If you are not good and you sell your body, you are just wasting your time. But if you are good and you refuse to compromise, your talent will still put you on that spot.”

Afod also encouraged young creatives to take control of their careers by producing their own content, stating, “Let everybody have their own money and produce their own movies. That’s Nigerian style. Everybody can produce movies.”

However, some rights activists have voiced concerns that Afod’s perspective on the issue could inadvertently silence victims or discourage them from coming forward, especially within a cultural context where naming alleged abusers can lead to negative repercussions or hinder career prospects.

Despite the controversy, Afod remains resolute in his stance, concluding, “Accountability must start with facts, not hearsay.”