Nollywood actor IK Ogbonna has kicked against politics in Nigeria’s Cinema.
On his Instagram page, he noted how they’ve poured their heart, soul, and countless hours into bringing A Very Dirty Christmas to the big screen, and it’s unacceptable that they’ve encountered manipulative tactics.
He revealed that their showtimes have been shifted countless times, slots replaced, and even the air conditioning turned off in halls showing their films.
Ogbonna admonished those involved in such atrocities to stop now, so they can have a fair and thriving cinema environment. He noted how producers invest heavily and want a fair chance to share their work and recover their investments.
“Politics in Nigeria’s cinema has to stop.
This message is for the cinema houses directly and also for the producers who are influencing these politics. We’ve poured our heart, soul, and countless hours into bringing ‘A Very Dirty Christmas’ to the big screen, and it’s unacceptable that we’ve encountered these manipulative tactics. Showtimes have been shifted countless times, our slots replaced, and even the air conditioning turned off in halls showing our film. Celebrities doing meet-and-greets have had negative experiences. And let’s not forget the attendees behind the counter who manipulate and influence customers, steering them away from certain films. This kind of bias is unacceptable.
To the other producers involved in these tactics: you know yourselves. We won’t name names, but it’s time to stop. You’re part of this industry, and by playing these games, you’re hurting it. The politics is as clear as day and night. Stop now so we can have a fair and thriving cinema environment.
Producers invest heavily and simply want a fair chance to share their work and recover their investments. Let’s put an end to these dirty and ridiculous practices in Nigerian cinema. #FairCinema AVeryDirtyChristmas”.
Following threats from CAN to Ini Edo over her movie title, IK expressed disappointment in the Association. He noted how they had seen the promotions for months and said nothing, but now have issues with it now that the film is out nationwide and doing well. He questioned how Christian it is to stay silent all along, then speak only when progress has been made.
In another post, he noted that artists have creative rights, and those rights should not be dictated by external bodies. He noted how this is one of the reasons why the Film Censors Board exists to properly review and approve films before they are released to the public. The light-skinned actor said he believes asking for a title change at this point doesn’t reflect the values of understanding, fairness, and compassion that Christianity teaches.
In other news, IK had cried out over the alarming rate at which Nigerian pastors are using fake miracles to deceive people. Expressing heartbreak over it, he noted how such behavior stains the true essence of Christianity, turning faith into a spectacle for selfish gain. Calling on the Christian Association of Nigeria CAN, he told the body to step up, regulate, and hold the actors pretending to be pastors accountable.
The light-skinned actor had spoken about today’s fame culture. He noted how clout has become the new currency, and many people are desperate to spend it. Ogbonna said that, unknowingly to them, not all fake is created equal, and forced fame might get one quick recognition and momentary, but it wouldn’t last.