Crisis In Nollywood As Funke Akindele, Fathia Balogun’s Silent Feud Resurfaces
A cold war is brewing in the Nollywood industry as tensions between two prominent actresses, Funke Akindele and Fathia Balogun, have taken center stage.
The rift, which has become the subject of industry speculation, stems from Akindele’s disappointment over Balogun’s failure to promote her latest movie, Everybody Loves Jennifer.
Insiders revealed that Akindele, who is renowned for her dedication to her projects, had expected unwavering support from her colleague, especially since Balogun featured in the movie.
However, Balogun’s noticeable silence on social media and absence at the star-studded premiere raised eyebrows, deepening suspicions of a simmering conflict.
Sources disclosed that Akindele, visibly displeased with Balogun’s perceived lack of solidarity, resorted to blocking the actress on Instagram. In what appears to be a subtle jab, Balogun responded with a cryptic video shared on her TikTok page.
“If you blocked me on earth, did you block me in heaven? Or is the God I serve blocked too?” she quipped, fueling speculation that the statement was directed at Akindele.
The video quickly went viral, with fans interpreting it as a veiled response to Akindele’s move. While neither actress has publicly addressed the rift, checks on Tuesday revealed that both have unfollowed each other on Instagram.
Further stirring the pot, Balogun has reportedly shifted focus to her ambitious project, Efunroye D Unicon, a movie that many say has consumed her attention.
Supporters of the actress praised her for prioritizing her work and remaining steadfast amid the controversy.
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“This is not just about the movie,” an industry insider remarked. “There seems to be a deeper issue between them that has been unresolved for some time. It’s clear the tension has lingered, and it doesn’t look like it will end anytime soon.”
While Akindele has maintained her characteristic silence, known for her professionalism and refusal to engage in public spats, her actions have not gone unnoticed. Fans have taken to social media to call for a reconciliation between the two stars, with divided opinions on who is at fault.
Some supporters argue that Akindele’s reaction was justified, considering Balogun’s absence and lack of promotion for Everybody Loves Jennifer. Others, however, insist that Balogun has every right to prioritize her upcoming project and address personal matters as she deems fit.
Adding another layer to the controversy, rumors suggest Balogun’s decision to skip Akindele’s premiere may have been retaliatory, stemming from Akindele’s alleged absence at Balogun’s father’s funeral. While neither actress has confirmed this claim, it has provided fodder for Nollywood enthusiasts.
This is not the first time Nollywood has been rocked by high-profile feuds, but the silent nature of this rift and its public undertones have kept observers intrigued. As the dust refuses to settle, fans and industry insiders alike await whether the two stars will eventually put aside their differences.
Sodiq Lawal is a passionate and dedicated journalist with a knack for uncovering captivating stories in the bustling metropolis of Osun State and Nigeria at large. He has a versatile reporting style, covering a wide range of topics, from politics , campus, and social issues to arts and culture, seeking impact in all facets of the society.
