Saka defends Funke Akindele against strict-set rumours

Veteran actor Afeez Oyetoro (Saka) has publicly defended filmmaker Funke Akindele against rumours of her being excessively strict on set, praising her discipline and dedication.

Veteran actor Afeez Oyetoro (Saka) publicly defended filmmaker Funke Akindele against rumours of her being excessively strict on set, praising her discipline and dedication. The rumours had circulated on social media, suggesting that Akindele’s demanding approach to filmmaking had created tension on set.

Oyetoro’s defence is a significant endorsement from a respected industry figure. He praised Akindele’s professionalism and dedication, arguing that her high standards are what make her films successful. The defence may help to counter the negative narrative and reinforce Akindele’s reputation as a serious filmmaker.

This echoes the 2020 industry debates about directors’ working styles, which also saw actors defend their collaborators. The mechanism then was different, but the result was the same: a defence of a director’s approach.

The winners: Funke Akindele, who has received a public defence; and the Nigerian film industry, which benefits from a respectful debate. The losers: those who spread the rumours; and the Nigerian public, who must judge the facts.

Bottom Line: Saka has defended Funke Akindele. The rumours of strictness have been challenged. The question is whether the defence will change public perception.