entertainment
Nollywood Faces Mixed Reactions On Government Prohibition Of Smoking And Ritual Scenes
Nollywood Faces Mixed Reactions On Government Prohibition Of Smoking And Ritual Scenes
The Federal Government’s decision to prohibit depictions of smoking, ritual activities, and the glamorization of such vices in Nollywood films has sparked significant debate among industry stakeholders. This move, announced by Dr. Shaibu Husseini, Executive Director of the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB), aims to address what is seen as an industry emergency requiring bold actions from all involved……CONTINUE READING....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
Government’s Stance
The announcement came during a national stakeholders’ engagement on smoke-free Nollywood held in Enugu, organized by NFVCB in collaboration with Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA). The policy, approved by the Minister of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, Hannatu Musawa, pursuant to section 65 of the NFVCB Act 2004, includes the prohibition of money rituals, ritual killings, and the promotion of tobacco and other related products.
Dr. Husseini emphasized the negative influence these portrayals have on teens and young adults, who constitute the largest segment of Nigerian movie viewers. The NFVCB plans to undertake extensive enlightenment programs in educational institutions, local communities, and other groups to promote positive health messages and discourage these practices in films.
Divergent Views from Industry Stakeholders
Support for the Ban:
- Bob Manuel Udokwu, a veteran Nollywood actor, argues that the restrictions are often misunderstood as an outright ban. He clarifies that the regulations aim to ensure that filmmakers do not inadvertently promote harmful practices, supporting the NFVCB’s intent to maintain dignified content for all audience categories.
- Nelson Bright sees the ban as a positive step in combating human trafficking and illegal organ harvesting, though he acknowledges potential downsides such as restrictions on personal liberty and artistic expression.
Opposition to the Ban:
- Jennifer Obodo, a Nollywood actress, criticizes the government’s focus, suggesting that more pressing national issues like economic challenges and insecurity should take precedence. She argues that movies are fictional and should not be the government’s primary concern.
- Ngozi Eze Evuka also opposes the ban, asserting that movies serve educational and entertainment purposes. She warns that such restrictions could lead to further limitations on creative expression within the industry.
- Nnaemeka Charles Eze (Nani Boi) contends that the government should prioritize other significant issues. He suggests that movies with ritual scenes often end with moral lessons, and a complete ban might prevent these educational messages from reaching viewers.
- Don Sylvester Nweke, CEO of Don Sylvester Records, highlights that censoring these aspects could make the film industry dull, arguing that films reflecting societal realities should be used to educate rather than being outright banned.
- Maxi Okwu, former national chairman of the All Progressives Grand Alliance (APGA), raises concerns about the infringement on fundamental rights. He argues that creative freedom, protected by the constitution, should not be compromised, and any law that derogates from these rights may face legal challenges.
Balancing Creativity and Regulation
The debate over the NFVCB’s new regulations reveals a complex landscape where the need to protect public health and morality intersects with the defense of creative freedom and expression. As the Nollywood industry continues to grow and gain international recognition, finding a balance that respects both societal values and artistic liberty will be crucial. The discussions and outcomes from this policy will likely shape the future trajectory of Nigerian cinema and its global impact.
BBNaija Season 4 winner, Mercy Eke, has revealed she values money more than fame, saying she would gladly give up her celebrity status for $2 billion.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In an interview with media personality Odira Ndubuaku, Mercy said her priority is financial freedom, adding that fame without wealth has no real value. She explained that with $2 billion, she could afford a private island, secure a comfortable life, and take care of her family. According to her, she only enjoys fame “occasionally” and would not hesitate to step away from the spotlight if the right offer comes. Mercy added that she does not attach much importance to social media influence and would even consider deleting her accounts if paid enough. She said, “I would trade my fame for $2 billion. What is fame doing? Give me money and remove me from all social media. I would give up everything for money.” In other news, BBNaija Season 6 winner Hazel Oyeze Onou, popularly known as WhiteMoney, recently took a swipe at Mercy Eke and Maria Chike Benjamin during a TikTok live session. WhiteMoney mocked Mercy over her personal life and lifestyle choices, making several controversial remarks during the livestream. He also warned Maria that joining the session would lead to embarrassment, using harsh words while addressing her directly. His comments have since sparked reactions online, especially as he referenced his past interactions with Mercy during the BBNaija All Stars edition.
Model Olajumoke Orisaguna, popularly known as Olajumoke Onibread, has denied claims of substance abuse following a viral TikTok video that sparked concern among fans.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
In a post shared on Instagram, the former breadseller-turned-model explained that the video, where she was seen singing freestyle, was created purely for entertainment purposes.
She condemned online comments suggesting she now smokes or drinks alcohol, insisting that such habits do not reflect her upbringing or lifestyle.
Olajumoke said the misunderstanding arose from her attempt to create engaging content for her audience.
According to her, “I’m not happy about the comments I saw on my video. Some people were saying that I now smoke and drink alcohol. Why would anyone think that about me? It was just content.”
She stressed that she neither smokes nor drinks, adding that she was not raised in such a way and urged the public not to attach a false reputation to her name.
Olajumoke added that even in social settings, she avoids alcohol, saying she often declines drinks offered to her.
She also clarified that the song she sang in the viral clip was not her own.
Olajumoke rose to fame in 2016 after being discovered by photographer TY Bello. She has since rebranded into media, currently hosting a radio talk show where she shares her personal experiences and life struggles.
Nigerian singer Lojay has revealed how his perspective on fame and relationships changed after he gained success in the music industry.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶
He said he once believed that becoming a pop star would give him the freedom to have multiple romantic relationships, a mindset he had during his early days before fame.
Speaking on the I Said What I Said podcast, Lojay explained that his outlook shifted as he began to understand the demands of building a long-term music career and the discipline it requires.
According to him, rising fame comes with constant attention and distractions, especially from women, but he quickly realised the importance of self-control and focus.
He noted that although the industry exposes artistes to many temptations, not every opportunity should be acted on, stressing that discipline is key to staying relevant.
Lojay said that as his popularity grew and he started receiving attention from many people at once, he understood the need to manage it responsibly to protect his career.
He added that he now avoids excess distractions, saying that sustaining a long-term career requires focus similar to that of top industry figures.
The singer also reflected on his transition from an upcoming artiste to mainstream recognition, noting that some of the lifestyles he once admired do not appear the same from the inside.
He concluded that despite public perception, artistes are often more careful than people think, because maintaining a good image is crucial in the entertainment industry.
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