Moji Afolayan, a veteran Nollywood actress and daughter of the late Adeyemi ‘Adeluv’ Afolayan, has revealed the dark underbelly of the Nigerian film industry, detailing how she was systematically blacklisted for refusing to succumb to sexual exploitation. In a candid interview, Afolayan recounted the pervasive “casting couch” culture prevalent in the industry, particularly during the era when marketers held significant sway over film production. These marketers, who often financed movies, used their position of power to coerce actresses into sexual relationships in exchange for roles. Afolayan, grounded in strong moral principles instilled by her upbringing, steadfastly refused to compromise her integrity, a decision that came at a substantial cost to her career.
Afolayan’s refusal to engage in this exploitative practice triggered a backlash from the marketers. She alleges that a concerted effort was made to ostracize her, effectively barring her from securing roles. This deliberate exclusion, she believes, significantly hampered her rise to fame and impacted her earnings. Afolayan contrasted her experience with that of other actresses who, she claims, readily participated in these compromising arrangements, even while being married. She alleges that these women justified their actions by claiming their husbands were unaware or unconcerned. This culture of silence and complicity, according to Afolayan, allowed the exploitation to fester and thrive within the industry.
The actress, now married to fellow actor Rasaq ‘Ojopagogo’ Olayiwola, stood firm in her convictions, prioritizing her dignity and self-respect over career advancement. She highlighted the transient nature of the fame achieved through such compromises, noting that many of these actresses who initially benefited from these arrangements later faced difficulties when attempting to establish independent careers. She expressed gratitude for the path she chose, emphasizing the enduring value of integrity and the peace of mind it affords. Afolayan’s courage in speaking out sheds light on the systemic issues within Nollywood and the challenges faced by actresses who refuse to conform to these exploitative norms.
Afolayan also revealed that she was not the only victim of this predatory system. She recalled the experience of a deceased colleague who faced similar rejection after refusing the sexual advances of a marketer. This anecdote reinforces the claim that this practice was widespread and had a devastating impact on the careers of many aspiring actresses. The late colleague, according to Afolayan, encouraged her to remain steadfast in her principles, underscoring the solidarity among those who resisted these exploitative practices. This shared experience of marginalization further emphasizes the systemic nature of the problem and the courage required to challenge it.
The blacklisting, Afolayan admits, had a profound impact on her career trajectory, affecting both her income and recognition. Despite the setbacks, she expressed no regret for her decision, stating that she cherishes her dignity and self-respect above all else. This unwavering stance, while costly in the short term, has ultimately allowed her to maintain her integrity and stand apart from the controversies that plagued others who succumbed to the pressure. Afolayan’s resilience and unwavering commitment to her principles serve as a testament to her character and offer a hopeful example for aspiring actresses navigating the complex landscape of the film industry.
The emergence of digital platforms, particularly YouTube, has offered Afolayan and other actors a new avenue to showcase their talents and reach audiences directly. She sees this as a form of empowerment, allowing actors to bypass the traditional gatekeepers who previously held immense power. This shift in the industry landscape has, to some extent, levelled the playing field, offering opportunities to those who were previously marginalized. Afolayan’s story highlights the importance of speaking out against injustice and the potential for positive change even within deeply entrenched systems of exploitation. Her experiences provide a valuable lesson for aspiring actors and actresses, reminding them of the importance of upholding their values and refusing to compromise their integrity for the sake of career advancement.
