- Kunle Afolayan said Funke Akindele demanded ₦3.5m per scene for Aníkúlápó
- The filmmaker declined the fee and cast another actress for the role
- Communication between both figures reportedly broke down after the incident
Veteran Nigerian filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has spoken publicly about his reported fallout with actress Funke Akindele, shedding light on the circumstances that led to their disagreement.
During an interview on Arise TV, Afolayan disclosed that he had initially approached Akindele for a key role in his acclaimed film Aníkúlápó. The role in question was that of Queen Arolake, a central character in the production.
According to the filmmaker, discussions did not progress as expected after the actress reportedly quoted a fee of ₦3.5 million per scene. Afolayan stated that he considered the demand too high for the project’s budget, ultimately deciding to cast another actress in the role.
The decision, he explained, marked the beginning of a breakdown in communication between the two industry figures. While both continued to attend the same events within Nollywood, their professional relationship reportedly remained strained.
Afolayan further revealed that he later attempted to reconnect with Akindele by congratulating her on a recent achievement. However, he claimed the gesture was not well received.
According to him, the actress allegedly responded by asking him not to speak to her again or mention her name publicly, deepening the rift between them.
The revelation has sparked conversations within the Nigerian film industry, particularly around remuneration, professional expectations, and interpersonal dynamics among top actors and filmmakers.
Both Afolayan and Akindele are widely regarded as influential figures in Nollywood, with successful careers spanning decades. Their reported disagreement highlights the complexities of collaboration in an industry where creative vision and financial considerations often intersect.
As of the time of reporting, Funke Akindele has not publicly responded to Afolayan’s claims.