Nollywood veteran actor Kanayo Kanayo has issued a stern warning to movie producers about working with fast-rising actress Angel Unigwe.
In a now-deleted video posted on his Instagram page, Kanayo accused Unigwe’s mother of holding producers to ransom and breaching agreements.
Kanayo explained that he had engaged Unigwe for an upcoming movie and made an agreement with her mother, which she failed to honor.
“A particular woman has been holding producers to ransoms and it is unfortunate it has happened to me. Unfortunately, she is Angel Unigwe’s mother,” he said. He added, “She took her daughter at 9pm when the particular date that we agreed hasn’t expired. She came at 9pm and took her daughter.”
The actor warned other producers to avoid hiring Unigwe or risk having their movie sets disrupted.
“This is a clarion call to producers. From this moment to the first day of July 2024, any set that employs the services of Angel Unigwe, I will come to that set and make sure filming doesn’t hold. Her mother has been threatening many producers,” he declared.
Kanayo’s video sparked a variety of reactions from Nigerians. Some supported his stance, while others questioned his methods.
@zedozinho commented, “Sounds like a mother protecting her young daughter. Perhaps in future contracts the end of business day should be properly agreed on.”
@officialbensino added humorously, “Use them for sacrifice, it’s simple sir 😂😂.”
@fridaypeters_official found the situation extreme, saying, “I just feel like this is too extreme though!”
@dadamusicent supported Kanayo, stating, “I support you sir, I have heard the unpleasant behavior of her mother especially. I think the guild should even ban her from acting, this will serve as a lesson to her and others who treat producers less.”
Others questioned Kanayo’s timing and motives. @meek_mayor asked, “Why didn’t you react when it happened to other people even when it got to your notice until it happened to you sir? Just a sincere question ✌️.”
@itz_andra_official expressed concern for the young actress’s career, “Na so you just wan spoil this small girl career nawa oo.”
Some users shared their own experiences. @odira_ezejiugo wrote, “Many won’t understand where Sir Kanayo’s pain is coming from until it happens to you as a producer. It’s painful when an actor walks out on set without completing their paid job.”
@smartjobonson disagreed with Kanayo’s stance on late filming, saying, “No No No. I beg to respectfully disagree on this one. What, why are you filming till 9 PM? When do the actors go home and get some rest?”
Other users worried about the long-term impact of the controversy. @mazi_shields commented, “But is she not an adult? Why will an adult who is mature and legally accountable allow her mother influence her contractual agreement negatively? This video alone is enough to blacklist them in the industry.”
