OMOTOLA JALADE EKEINDE ON THE BAN OF PROMINENT NOLLYWOOD STARS
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By: Fasasi Hammad
Veteran Nollywood actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde has opened up about the ban imposed on her and several top actors by movie marketers in 2005, describing the episode as a pivotal moment that reshaped her career and outlook on work.
In an interview with the media, Omotola explained that the ban targeted eight of Nollywood’s leading stars at the time, including Genevieve Nnaji, Ramsey Nouah, Jim Iyke, Stella Damasus, Richard Mofe-Damijo, Nkem Owoh, and one other actor. The restriction prevented them from collaborating with certain film marketers, sharply limiting their participation in movie projects during that period.
Marketers reportedly accused the actors of being a negative influence on the industry. Omotola clarified, “They banned some of us at that time. Marketers said we too get Walahi because we dey try better the industry then, and that our wahala too much—that we are a bad influence on the industry because we dey push for standards.”
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She maintained that the real issue stemmed from their push for higher standards, professionalism, and improved quality in filmmaking—efforts that clashed with the interests of those controlling production and distribution.
While some actors were reinstated after roughly a year, Omotola’s ban lasted longer due to her decision not to attend a reconciliation meeting organized by the marketers, a move that strained relations further.
Despite the setback, Omotola refused to remain idle. She ventured into music, releasing her first album, and focused on business, particularly in investments and real estate.
Reflecting on the experience, she said the ban ultimately encouraged her to explore new paths rather than dwell on circumstances beyond her control, adding that it did not halt her career progress.
She recounted, “The first eight were me, Genevieve, Ramsey Nouah, Jim Iyke, Stella Damasus, RMD, Nkem Owoh, and one other person. We were eight—they just banned us.”
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