Award-winning filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has disclosed a tense exchange with actress and producer Funke Akindele, following public comments he made about promotional strategies within Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood.
According to Afolayan, Akindele initiated a personal phone call after his remarks were interpreted as critical of promotional methods that rely heavily on social media dance challenges. Speaking in an interview with Arise News, Afolayan recounted that Akindele objected to being associated with his commentary.
“She called, and she said, ‘I know you don’t like me, but don’t mention my name in your interviews,’” Afolayan stated. He added that the conversation ended abruptly after her statement.
Afolayan clarified that there is no personal conflict between them, emphasizing a long-standing professional and personal connection. He described the call as unexpected, noting their history includes meeting during their university years at the University of Lagos, where he was acquainted with her sister.
“She’s like a sister to me,” Afolayan said. “I am not sure where this is coming from.”
The incident highlights ongoing debates within Nollywood about effective movie marketing. Afolayan’s initial remarks appeared to question the sustainability of promotion tactics centered on viral dance trends, a strategy successfully employed by Akindele for projects like “Omo Ghetto.” His comments touched on a broader industry discussion about balancing traditional press engagements with social media-driven campaigns.
Both filmmakers are established figures in Nollywood. Afolayan, known for films such as “October 1” and “The Figurine,” is also a vocal commentator on industry practices. Akindele, star of the “Jenifa” franchise, has pioneered modern, social-media-focused promotional models.
The phone call underscores how professional disagreements can become personal in a closely connected industry. While Afolayan maintained the exchange was isolated, it reflects the sensitivity around commentary on peers’ business strategies. Observers note that such public spats, however brief, can influence industry discourse and collaborative dynamics.
The situation appears unresolved in the public sphere, with neither party issuing a follow-up statement. The focus now shifts to whether this private disagreement will impact their future professional interactions or remain an isolated moment of tension.
