Veteran Nigerian comic actor Wale Akorede, widely known by his stage name Okunnu, has publicly alleged non-payment by prominent film marketer Olasco Films for a feature film he produced, directed, and starred in several years ago.
The accusations emerged during a recent televised interview with media personality Olugbenga Oropo Valentine on the SAWORO program, which has since gained traction online. Akorede stated that he has not been compensated for the two-part movie, titled Aare, which he created for Olasco Films and its head, Akeem Balogun.
According to Akorede, the film was produced, directed, and acted in by him, with both parts released simultaneously. He claims he received no financial return from the project. “I wrote a movie ‘Aare’. I directed it and played the lead role. Both part 1 and part 2 of the movie were released at the same time. I didn’t see a dime from it,” he said in the interview. He further emphasized that he had not received even a minimal payment, stating he was not given “N5 for pure water till this moment.”
Akorede directly addressed Balogun, adding, “I haven’t forgiven Olasco. Mr Akeem Balogun Olasco, I don’t know about tomorrow, but as at the moment, I haven’t forgiven Olasco.” He characterized the unpaid fee as compensation for his “sweat.”
Olasco Films, a well-known distribution and marketing company within Nigeria’s Nollywood film industry, has not publicly responded to the allegations. The dispute highlights ongoing tensions in Nollywood between content creators—including actors, directors, and producers—and financiers or marketers, where contractual agreements and profit-sharing have historically been sources of conflict.
Akorede’s decision to revisit the matter publicly underscores the persistent challenges many veteran practitioners face in securing remuneration for their creative contributions. The case points to the need for clearer contractual frameworks and accountability in film financing arrangements within the industry. No legal action has been reported in connection with the claim.
