Nollywood Gist
Kunle Ominire
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Iyabo Ojo has announced she is stepping away from efforts to reconcile her colleagues, Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham, following a fresh tension between the two stars.
The renewed controversy surfaced over the weekend during Iyabo Ojo’s movie premiere, where Funke Akindele appeared to ignore Toyin Abraham when she approached their table to exchange greetings. While Toyin greeted Iyabo warmly, Funke reportedly did not respond, sparking reactions online and fueling speculation of a lingering rift.
Reacting to the backlash, Iyabo Ojo took to her Instagram page on Tuesday to address critics and clarify her role in the situation. She revealed that her friendship with Funke Akindele spans many years but admitted that their relationship had experienced ups and downs.
Iyabo acknowledged that she once publicly criticized Funke over issues related to Toyin Abraham’s film, describing the move as a mistake she later regretted. She explained that she eventually reconciled with Funke and went further to broker peace between both actresses.
According to Iyabo, she made significant efforts to bring the two colleagues together, including pleading and encouraging them to resolve their differences. She noted that both parties agreed to maintain peace and avoid addressing disagreements publicly, opting instead to settle issues privately.
However, she disclosed that the understanding collapsed in December after Toyin Abraham reportedly raised concerns about challenges affecting her movie in cinemas. The complaints, Iyabo said, led fans to speculate and accuse Funke Akindele, which reignited tensions between the two actresses.
Iyabo also shared details about her own film project, “The Return of Arinzo,” revealing that Toyin Abraham was initially expected to feature in the production but withdrew at the last minute due to exhaustion and travel commitments. She admitted the decision initially upset her because it required rewriting parts of the script, but said they later resolved the issue.
Expressing disappointment over the ongoing conflict, Iyabo emphasized that there is enough space for everyone to succeed in the industry. She added that despite her efforts, she has decided to step back from mediating between the two.
“I have tried my best, but at this point, I can’t beg anyone anymore. I don’t want to get involved again. When both parties are ready, they will make peace,” she wrote, adding that she still holds affection for both actresses.
The development has continued to generate reactions among fans, with many hoping the trio will eventually resolve their differences and restore their long-standing professional relationships.
