In a shocking twist to the ongoing drama in Nigeria’s entertainment industry, popular Yoruba actor, Ijoba Lande, has publicly begged Nollywood star Funke Akindele to help resolve a financial dispute that could lead to his imprisonment. The actor, who is known for his roles in Yoruba movies, revealed that he is facing legal action due to an unresolved ₦90,000 debt.
Ijoba Lande, in a recent video that has since gone viral on social media, expressed his deep regret over the matter, which has now escalated to the point where he fears potential jail time. The actor, whose real name is not widely known, disclosed that Funke Akindele had been involved in the situation, as the sum in question was a payment owed to the actress by Ijoba Lande for services rendered in connection with a film project.
According to the actor, the issue began when he was hired by Funke Akindele’s production company for a supporting role in one of her movies. However, due to various personal and professional challenges, he was unable to meet the terms of the financial agreement and was left with the outstanding debt.
In the heartfelt plea, Ijoba Lande tearfully explained how he had fallen into difficult circumstances, which made it impossible for him to repay the ₦90,000 on time. The actor also mentioned how the pressure from creditors had begun to weigh heavily on him, as several other parties were demanding payment.
Ijoba Lande, in a desperate plea, begged Funke Akindele to show mercy and allow him more time to settle the debt. He also admitted that the threat of jail time had left him in a state of anxiety, stating that he had no intention of going to prison over a debt that he genuinely hoped to clear. In a bid to make amends, he promised to make the full payment once his financial situation improved.
The video has sparked widespread reactions from fans and colleagues in the Nigerian entertainment industry. Some have sympathized with Ijoba Lande’s predicament, urging Funke Akindele to show understanding, while others have criticized him for failing to fulfill his financial obligations in the first place. Funke Akindele, known for her high profile in Nollywood and philanthropy, has yet to publicly respond to the plea.
The dispute over the ₦90,000 may seem trivial to some, but it highlights a deeper issue within the entertainment industry regarding financial transparency, accountability, and the importance of contracts. This incident also underscores the challenges many actors and filmmakers face in an industry where financial management can sometimes be disorganized or unreliable.
As the matter continues to unfold, industry insiders are calling for more structured financial systems to be put in place, ensuring that agreements between actors, producers, and other industry professionals are clearly documented and honored.
Whether Ijoba Lande’s plea will be met with understanding from Funke Akindele remains to be seen, but this episode has undoubtedly added another chapter to the ongoing conversation about the financial and professional challenges that actors face in Nigeria’s entertainment scene.