Ijoba Lande Blasts Funke Akindele Over Alleged ₦90K Pay After One Month’s Work, Sparks Industry Backlash

Nigerian actor and comedian Ijoba Lande has stirred controversy after publicly accusing Nollywood superstar Funke Akindele of gross underpayment, claiming he received only ₦90,000 after working for an entire month on one of her projects.

In a viral video and follow-up live session on social media, Lande alleged that he stayed at Akindele’s residence in Amen Estate for a full month, expecting fair compensation, only to be handed what he described as an insulting paycheck.

The revelation has split public opinion. While some have slammed Akindele for allegedly exploiting upcoming talent despite her wealth and status, others believe Lande’s public outburst was unprofessional and calculated to gain sympathy.

The incident has reignited debates about fairness, exploitation, and transparency within Nollywood, especially regarding how lesser-known actors are treated by A-list producers and directors. Some insiders argue that such financial arrangements are often informal and based on personal negotiation, while others say it’s time the industry set clear standards to protect creative workers.

As the backlash grows, Funke Akindele has yet to respond publicly, but the controversy continues to fuel conversations about inequality and exploitation behind the glitz and glam of Nollywood’s booming film industry.