After facing criticism from fans and colleagues, actor Ijoba Lande has publicly apologized to filmmaker Funke Akindele, following the circulation of a controversial video where he discussed his past earnings.
In a heartfelt video shared on Instagram, the actor bowed before the camera, expressing remorse and seeking forgiveness from Akindele. He also appealed to the public for help in mending his relationship with the actress.
“Please help me. Don’t let me end up in jail. Help me beg Funke Akindele,” he pleaded.
Ijoba Lande clarified that the video, which went viral, had been edited and misrepresented his original comments. He explained that he initially mentioned N190,000 but made a slip of the tongue, leading to the incorrect figure of N90,000 becoming widely shared.
“The video people are circulating was edited. It wasn’t how I originally recorded it. I never intended to harm her reputation. She did nothing wrong to me,” he stated.
Frustrated by the manipulation of his words, the actor called out those responsible for the edits, labeling them as “wicked” and urging Akindele not to take legal action, fearing it could have serious consequences for his life.
“I was explaining that it was N90,000, but the video was cut and pieced together. It wasn’t N90,000 from the start. I mentioned it was a mistake and that I meant N190,000,” he clarified.
He further detailed the circumstances surrounding the incident, emphasizing that his goal was to highlight the importance of clear payment terms between actors and producers.
“Many producers are unaware of the actual payments made to actors. Sometimes, production managers deduct from the agreed amounts before paying. That’s what I was discussing. I used my experience with Aunty Funke as an example, since I worked with her in 2022.”
Ijoba Lande recounted his time working on the set of My Siblings and I, where he played the role of a gateman. He initially stated that he was paid N90,000, but later corrected the figure to N190,000.
“I signed the contract myself, and I was fine with the amount, which is why I agreed to take the job. Funke called me to work, and someone else provided the contract. I accepted the role and worked for a month. When the month was over, I stopped going to the set.”
The actor revealed that Akindele later reached out to him after learning how much he was paid, and she intervened to increase his compensation.
“She asked about my pay, and when I told her, she was surprised. She said, ‘Why didn’t you tell me?’ I thought she was aware. That’s when I realized she didn’t know. She promised to have me called back, and they began paying me N55,000 to N65,000 per day until I finished the job.
Ijoba Lande reiterated that his words had been taken out of context, lamenting how the edited video distorted his intentions.
“They cut out the part where I corrected myself, saying it was a mistake. I never intended to misrepresent anything,” he added.
In a final emotional appeal, he begged Akindele for forgiveness, stating that he harbored no ill feelings toward her and sought no conflict.
“I wasn’t the only person in the video, please. Aunty Funke, I am so sorry. Please forgive me. I have no issues with you, and I don’t want any trouble. If you decide to arrest me, it will be as if you want to send me to prison, because I am not fighting you. I am begging you.”
This apology comes after the initial backlash and highlights the power of social media in shaping public narratives.
