Lalude Sola Sobowale snub sparks tension in Nollywood as veteran actor accuses the actress of disrespect and ignoring him at a public event in Lagos

Lalude Sola Sobowale snub has stirred emotional debate within Nollywood following the veteran actor’s recent claims that the award-winning actress has been ignoring him despite their long professional history.

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Fatai Adekunle Adetayo, popularly known as Lalude, expressed his disappointment during an interview on Behind the Fame – African A-List, recounting an incident where he said Sobowale deliberately refused to acknowledge his presence at a public event.

The encounter, which reportedly occurred at a show organised by Olayemi Olayinka, left Lalude visibly upset. According to the actor, Sola Sobowale, who was also in attendance, was fully aware of his presence yet chose not to greet him.

“She did something that pained me one day,” Lalude recalled. “I was at Olayemi Olayinka’s show and I heard Sola Sobowale was there and she knew I was around also, but didn’t bother to come say hi. She’s not even older than me.”

Lalude, known for his roles in Yoruba traditional films, took the moment to reflect on their early careers. He shared how Sobowale had been introduced to him during her formative years in the industry, specifically during the staging of Ogun Awoyaya, a production led by Jide Kosoko at the National Theatre in Lagos.

“She was brought to me by Ngozi during Uncle Jide Kosoko’s play at the National Theatre. I remember when she was just getting started,” he stated, implying a sense of betrayal from someone he once considered a junior colleague.

The veteran actor also questioned the public perception of Sola Sobowale’s wealth and international stature. Despite her recent global acclaim and living abroad, Lalude insisted that her financial standing might be overstated. “Regardless of her living abroad, she’s not truly wealthy,” he said.

His comments have drawn mixed reactions from fans and industry observers. While some sympathise with the actor and call for mutual respect among Nollywood veterans, others suggest that personal grievances should be handled privately.

Sola Sobowale, best known for her powerful performances in productions like King of Boys, has yet to respond to Lalude’s claims. Her silence has only added to the growing curiosity around the alleged snub, especially given the timing of the interview and the emotional tone of Lalude’s remarks.

In the Nigerian film industry, questions of seniority and respect remain sensitive topics, especially among actors who have devoted decades to the craft. Lalude’s frustration reflects the tension many older stars feel in an evolving landscape where fame often overshadows history.

A Nollywood insider, who asked not to be named, told our correspondent that such disputes are not uncommon. “There’s a lot of pride and history in the industry.

Senior actors often feel forgotten or sidelined, especially when younger or more prominent figures appear unbothered.”

The Lalude Sola Sobowale snub also adds to the ongoing conversation about how veteran actors are treated, both by their peers and by the younger generation of stars.

As the industry continues to grow and attract global audiences, these internal dynamics have begun to surface more publicly.

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Supporters of Lalude have taken to social media to express solidarity, urging the Nollywood community to foster more unity and mutual recognition. Others, however, caution against public outbursts that may tarnish long-standing reputations.