Why Omotola Explains 2005 Ban of Top Nollywood Actors

Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde has explained the circumstances behind the ban placed on her and several other leading actors by movie marketers in 2005.

Speaking during an interview on Yanga FM Nigeria, Omotola described the incident as a major turning point in her career. She said the ban affected eight of the industry’s top stars at the time, including Genevieve Nnaji, Ramsey Nouah, Jim Iyke, Stella Damasus, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and Nkem Owoh.

According to Omotola, the restriction prevented the actors from working with certain film marketers, significantly reducing their participation in movie projects during that period. She said the marketers accused the group of being a negative influence on the industry.

Omotola explained that the real source of the conflict was the actors’ insistence on higher standards, professionalism, and improved quality in filmmaking. She noted that these demands reportedly clashed with the interests of those controlling film production and distribution at the time.

While some of the affected actors were reinstated after about a year, Omotola said her ban lasted longer because she declined to attend a reconciliation meeting organized by the marketers.

Despite the setback, she said the experience pushed her to explore other ventures, including music and business investments, particularly in real estate. Omotola added that the ban did not halt her career progression but instead encouraged her to pursue new opportunities.

Source: Daily Post