The Dark Side of Nollywood: Unveiling the Exploitation, the Marathon Sex and Corruption

 

Nollywood, the Nigerian film industry, is often regarded as one of the largest in the world, captivating audiences with its stories, entertainment, and vibrant characters. However, behind the glittering façade of fame and luxury lies a darker side that few dare to expose. An increasing number of actors, former participants, and insiders have started to open up about the exploitation, harassment, and corruption that plague this once-celebrated industry.

One of the most disturbing aspects of Nollywood is the degree of exploitation that new talent is subjected to. In order to secure roles, young women often have to endure a shocking range of demands from those in power. These demands range from sexual favors to manipulation and threats. The various levels of people involved in the production process—from directors and producers to costume designers and lighting technicians—form a system of control that leaves many new actors feeling powerless and vulnerable.

In many cases, newcomers to the industry are expected to "pay their dues" by performing sexual favors, known as "piping," to key industry figures before they are even considered for a significant role. For women, the pressure is particularly intense. It is said that to be given serious consideration for a role in Nollywood, a female actor must go through a series of compromising situations with individuals ranging from the director and producer to the costume designer and even the production assistants. Those who refuse to comply often find themselves sidelined with insignificant roles, known as "waka pass," where their faces are barely shown in the final product.

The hardships don't end with the abuse of power. Many actors, particularly the younger ones, are subjected to inhumane working conditions. Some reports claim that actors are not fed properly during shoots, sometimes only receiving one meal a day—barely enough to sustain them throughout long and grueling filming hours that stretch from early morning until late at night or even until dawn. After shooting, actors are often crammed into shared hotel rooms, sometimes with as many as seven people staying in one room, including women being lodged with men. This creates an environment where harassment and exploitation are more likely to occur.

Even those who manage to land leading roles often face a harsh reality. Despite the glamour associated with being a Nollywood star, many actors struggle financially. The industry, contrary to popular belief, does not generate the wealth one would expect for its participants. The truth is that many actors are poorly paid, with some reportedly earning as little as 10,000 naira—equivalent to less than $10—for their roles. Worse still, many of them are never paid at all, leaving them to battle poverty while trying to make a name for themselves in the industry.

A common observation is the stark difference between how male and female actors experience success in Nollywood. While women are often seen flaunting luxury cars and expensive lifestyle choices on social media, many of the men in the industry resort to begging for financial assistance when they fall ill. The disparity is often attributed to the fact that many of the women’s wealth comes from relationships with wealthy Nigerian politicians or other influential figures in exchange for sexual favors.

In many cases, women use their newfound fame in Nollywood to gain access to these powerful men, who are willing to spend large sums of money to maintain such relationships. This, in turn, helps them maintain their extravagant lifestyles. However, the men who are trying to break into the industry often face an even more difficult path, with many being forced to participate in exploitative practices to get noticed. Some have reported having to endure unwanted sexual advances from directors or producers in the hope of securing a role.

While the industry is full of predatory behavior and systemic corruption, it is also a place where individuals are willing to stand up and speak out against the exploitation. Many actors and insiders have shared their stories of how they refused to compromise their values and how this led to them being blacklisted in the industry. One individual recounted their experience of being approached by multiple gay directors and producers who offered money and fame in exchange for sexual favors. When they refused, the individuals responsible conspired to have them removed from upcoming projects.

Despite the grim picture painted by these testimonies, there are still actors, directors, and producers who are committed to making honest, impactful films. Even with all the corruption surrounding the industry, some continue to produce movies and strive to do so with integrity, even if they don’t make much money from it. However, they remain the exception rather than the rule.

In conclusion, Nollywood, once a symbol of creativity and talent, has devolved into a breeding ground for exploitation, abuse, and corruption. The publicized glamour of Nollywood actors is often a facade, hiding the harsh realities faced by many within the industry. Aspiring actors should be cautious before pursuing careers in Nollywood, as the path to fame may require them to sacrifice their dignity and safety. As long as this culture persists, Nollywood's reputation will remain tarnished by the dark undercurrents that control its every move.

*Chileem Ifeanyi Jnr.