The Nigerian entertainment industry, characterized by creativity, tight deadlines, and high-pressure environments, has recently witnessed multiple incidents involving physical altercations on film and music sets. Such incidents have raised concerns regarding safety, professionalism, and mental health within Nollywood. Oghenovo Egodo-Michael provides an overview of some notable disputes.
Peggy Ovire and Taye Arimoro
Actress Peggy Ovire and actor Taye Arimoro were involved in a widely publicized dispute after Arimoro posted videos showing alleged injuries, claiming he was attacked by Ovire and her team when attempting to leave the set after contracted hours. Ovire contended that the incident occurred only after Arimoro allegedly assaulted two of her crew members and attempted to leave before completing remaining scenes. CCTV footage was shared publicly, and the event sparked calls for an independent review and stronger industry policies to protect crew members while ensuring contractual obligations are met.
Anierobi “Nwa South” Courage and Mary Eze
Production manager and casting director Anierobi Courage, also known as Nwa South, was arrested following an alleged assault on makeup artist Mary Eze during filming of Lagos to Opulence in October 2025. A viral video appeared to show Courage physically engaging with Eze, prompting condemnation from the Nigerian Film Crew Community (NFCC), which called for him to be blacklisted and emphasized zero tolerance for workplace violence.
Femi Branch and Assistant Director
Actor Femi Branch was accused of assaulting a first assistant director during a June 2025 production disagreement. Eyewitnesses reported that Branch became physically aggressive over creative directions. Following the incident, he issued an apology to the assistant director and the production crew. The Film Crew Community commended the crew for upholding professional standards and integrity.
Zubby Michael and Godwin Nnadikwe
Actor Godwin Nnadikwe alleged that during filming, he suffered injuries from an unplanned kick delivered by fellow actor Zubby Michael. The incident, not part of the scripted scene, resulted in internal injuries and required personal medical attention due to the absence of on-set insurance or first-aid support. Nnadikwe emphasized the importance of adherence to scripts and prioritizing safety.
Shirley Igwe and Crew Member
Earlier in the year, actress Shirley Igwe was suspended indefinitely by the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria (AGN) following allegations of assault against a crew member. The suspension, communicated via official letter signed by the AGN president, cited professional misconduct, violence, and indiscipline as grounds, directing members to refrain from participating in any production involving Igwe. Reactions were mixed, with some supporting the AGN’s decisive action and others noting that a full examination of all perspectives was necessary.
These incidents underscore ongoing concerns regarding workplace safety, contractual compliance, and professional conduct in Nollywood, prompting calls for stronger regulatory oversight and protective measures for both cast and crew members.#newsafro_
