Renowned filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has shed light on a tense phone conversation with actress and producer Funke Akindele, following reports that he had criticized filmmakers who rely heavily on dance-led, aggressive promotional campaigns.

 

Speaking during an interview on Arise News, Afolayan described the call as unexpected and emotionally charged. He recounted how Akindele called him and said, “I know you don’t like me, but don’t mention my name in your interviews.” According to Afolayan, she was angry and yelling before abruptly ending the call by hanging up.

 

He said the situation felt strange because of their long-standing relationship. “Funke is like a sister to me. We grew up together… I honestly didn’t understand where it was coming from,” he said.

 

Afolayan clarified that his remarks had been misrepresented. He emphasized that he never criticized Akindele or any filmmaker for their promotional style, stating, “I only said it’s not something I personally want to do. It’s exhausting for me.” He explained that his comments were made during a film business forum focused on cinema sustainability, profitability, and the economic realities of cinema releases.

 

The filmmaker also expressed disappointment over the backlash that followed online, noting that coordinated attacks escalated the controversy. “If she felt offended in any way, I’m sorry,” he said, while maintaining that his stance was never personal.

 

Afolayan also praised Akindele’s achievements, describing her career growth as strategic and intentional. “I actually told young filmmakers that if they want a model that works now, they should study Funke Akindele’s journey from Jenifa to where her brand is today,” he said, reiterating that he has “nothing against her at all. She’s my sister.”

 

The clarification comes amid ongoing debate in the Nigerian film industry about the sustainability of cinema releases and the evolving strategies filmmakers use to promote their projects.