- Ijoba Lande apologized to filmmaker Funke Akindele after backlash from fans and colleagues.
- The apology followed a viral video that misrepresented Lande’s comments about his past earnings.
- In a tearful Instagram post, Lande expressed remorse and pleaded for forgiveness.
Nollywood actor Ijoba Lande has issued a heartfelt apology to renowned filmmaker Funke Akindele after facing backlash from fans and industry colleagues over a viral video that allegedly misrepresented his remarks about previous earnings.
In a tearful Instagram post shared on Friday, Lande was seen prostrating before the camera, pleading with Akindele to forgive him and urging the public to help mediate peace between them.
“Please help me. I don’t want to end up in jail. Help me beg Funke Akindele,” he said emotionally.
The actor clarified that the widely circulated clip had been edited in a way that distorted his original message. He explained that while he initially mentioned earning ₦190,000 for a month-long role on My Siblings and I in 2022, a verbal slip made it sound like ₦90,000 — the version that went viral.
“The version going around is not the original. It was manipulated,” he stated. “I never intended to damage her reputation. She’s never wronged me.”
Lande also accused the individuals behind the edited footage of intentionally twisting his words, calling their actions “malicious.” He implored Akindele not to pursue legal action.
“When I said ₦90,000, it was a mistake. I corrected myself, but the video was cut and edited to leave out the full context,” he explained.
Providing more background, Lande emphasized that his intention was to advocate for clearer, more transparent payment terms within the Nollywood industry. He shared that he had no issue with his original agreement and was content with the payment at the time.
He also praised Akindele for stepping in when she found out about his pay rate. According to him, she took immediate action to ensure he received a better daily rate.
“She asked what I was earning and was shocked. She said, ‘Why didn’t you tell me?’ Then she arranged for my daily pay to be increased to ₦55,000 or ₦65,000.”
Lande concluded the video with a plea for understanding and expressed deep regret over the controversy.
“Aunty Funke, please forgive me. I never meant harm. If you have me arrested, it would mean you just want to punish me because I’m not against you. I’m begging from the bottom of my heart.”
