Nollywood Grapples with Accountability After Femi Branch Incident

Nigeria's Nollywood film industry is facing renewed scrutiny regarding power dynamics, accountability, and workplace conduct following allegations against veteran actor Femi Branch. The accusations, which include an alleged assault on a crew member and a decade-old unpaid debt, have ignited a debate about the industry's culture of silence and the need for systemic change.

Allegations of On-Set Assault and Unpaid Debt Surface

The controversy began on June 18, 2025, when reports surfaced alleging that Femi Branch physically assaulted a first Assistant Director (AD) on a film set. These claims were corroborated by multiple witnesses and an official statement from crew members. According to reports, Branch offered an apology after being confronted and prevented from leaving the set. In a separate incident, a user on X (formerly Twitter), identified as Pastor Timilehin, accused Branch of owing his father, Mr. Tolulope Komolafe, N9.7 million since 2011. The debt reportedly originated from a loan intended to finance Branch's film "Onile," with an agreed-upon monthly interest of N50,000.

Industry Response and the Culture of Silence

The allegations have sparked widespread discussion within Nollywood about the industry's long-standing issues with power imbalances and a tendency to protect established figures, even in the face of misconduct. "Nollywood has often excused unacceptable behavior under the guise of 'artistic temperament,'" says Dr. Stella Okeke, a film studies professor at the University of Lagos. "This incident highlights the urgent need for clear boundaries and consequences for actions that would be unacceptable in any other professional environment."

The crew's statement following the alleged assault has been noted as a significant moment of collective pushback, a rarity in an industry where junior staff often fear repercussions for speaking out against established actors or directors. This unified stance suggests a growing desire for change and a willingness to challenge the status quo.

Nollywood's Historical Context and Future Implications

Nollywood, despite its remarkable growth and global recognition, has historically struggled with issues of professionalism and ethical conduct. The industry's rapid expansion has sometimes outpaced the development of robust regulatory frameworks and internal mechanisms for addressing grievances. This has created an environment where abuses of power can go unchecked, and accountability is often lacking.

"The Femi Branch incident is a symptom of a larger problem," says film critic Adebayo Williams. "Nollywood needs to move beyond the 'vibes and trust' approach to business dealings and adopt more formal contracts and dispute resolution processes. It also needs to prioritize the well-being and safety of its crew members, who are often the most vulnerable to exploitation."

The Need for Systemic Reform

The controversy surrounding Femi Branch underscores the urgent need for Nollywood to address several key areas:

Establish clear codes of conduct: Implementing comprehensive guidelines that outline acceptable behavior and consequences for violations. Create independent reporting mechanisms: Providing safe and confidential channels for crew members to report misconduct without fear of retaliation. Promote professional development and training: Equipping crew members with the knowledge and skills to navigate workplace issues and advocate for their rights. Foster a culture of accountability: Holding all individuals, regardless of their status, responsible for their actions.

While Femi Branch has yet to publicly address the allegations, the industry's response will be closely watched as a test of its commitment to change. The incident serves as a crucial reminder that talent and success should not come at the expense of integrity and respect.

Moving Forward: A Call for Industry-Wide Reflection

The Femi Branch case presents Nollywood with an opportunity to reflect on its values and priorities. By addressing the underlying issues of power, ego, and accountability, the industry can create a more equitable and sustainable environment for all its members. The future of Nollywood depends not only on its ability to produce compelling stories but also on its commitment to ethical conduct and professional excellence.