Nollywood’s Shocking Secret: Moji Afolayan Reveals Why She Vanished from Our Screens
In a revelation that has sent shockwaves through Nollywood, veteran actress Moji Afolayan has finally opened up about her mysterious absence from the movie scene. The respected thespian, known for her powerful performances and deep-rooted family legacy, disclosed that her disappearance was not by choice, but a consequence of her “refusal to yield to marketers’ sexual advances”.
“Because I did not comply, they convened a meeting among themselves to not call me for roles. I did not sleep with them, nor did I offer my body for sex,”
— Moji Afolayan
Moji Afolayan revealed that during the era when marketers controlled Nollywood’s purse strings, actresses were often faced with a cruel ultimatum: “trade your body for roles or be sidelined”.
Despite her dedication and talent, Moji’s principled stand against the “sex-for-roles” culture led to her being blacklisted by powerful industry figures.
She shared that even married actresses were not spared, with some allegedly deceiving their spouses to secure roles. According to Moji, “I saw many of my colleagues compromise their values just to stay relevant. It was heartbreaking.”
The Hidden Struggles Behind the Glamour
While fans wondered about her sudden disappearance, Moji was silently enduring the consequences of her decision. She recounted how major movie marketers who once praised her talent suddenly stopped calling.
Producers and directors who had promised her lead roles quietly withdrew. Friends in the industry distanced themselves, fearing backlash from the powerful cabal.
“They made it clear that if I didn’t play by their rules, I would never act in their movies again. I chose my dignity over fame,”
— Moji Afolayan
In her candid interview, Moji did not mince words as she warned younger talents:
“Actresses, don’t give yourselves to any movie producer, director, or even production manager. It will tell in the future. Because I did not warm the beds of these producers, it affected my career. They will agree amongst themselves that I must not be given roles.”
— Moji Afolayan
Her message is a clarion call to upcoming actresses to “hold on to their values, no matter the cost.”
Public Reaction: Applause for Courage
Netizens and industry watchers have hailed Moji’s boldness and integrity. Many described her as a “woman of courage” for exposing the dark underbelly of Nollywood, even at the cost of her own career.
Social media has been awash with messages of support, with fans urging the industry to do better and protect its talents.
“It’s the boldness for me! She not only stood by her values, she also had the courage to expose them!”
— Netizen’s reaction
Moji’s revelation has reignited the conversation about sexual harassment and exploitation in Nollywood. Industry stakeholders are now calling for stricter regulations to protect actors and actresses.
There are also calls for transparent casting processes free from undue influence, and the creation of support systems for those who choose to speak out.
A prominent filmmaker commented,
“If we want Nollywood to grow, we must create an environment where talent, not compromise, is the ticket to success.”
Quote of the Day
“Integrity is choosing courage over comfort; choosing what is right over what is fun, fast, or easy.”
— Brené Brown
Moji Afolayan’s story is a wake-up call for the industry and society at large. Her experience highlights the urgent need for reforms and for more voices to speak out against exploitation in Nollywood. As the industry continues to evolve, it is voices like Moji’s that remind us that true stars shine brightest when they refuse to be dimmed by injustice.
