Society Gists

Nigerian comic actor and content creator, Ijoba Lande, has publicly retracted his earlier statement alleging that award-winning filmmaker Funke Akindele underpaid him for his role in the popular TV series My Siblings and I.

The comedian, who previously claimed he was paid only N90,000 for a month-long job, has now taken to Instagram to clear the air, stating that he actually received N190,000. According to Lande, the viral video clip that sparked controversy was selectively edited to misrepresent his full statement.

“I do not want to go to prison. Help me beg Aunty Funke,” he pleaded in his latest video. “The video was cut and joined. That was not how I did the video. That was not my intention. I cannot tarnish your image. You did not do me any harm.”

Lande emphasized that his comments were initially aimed at advising up-and-coming actors to negotiate their payments before accepting roles, not to defame Akindele.

“Everywhere I said N90,000; you were joining them up separately. They gave me N190,000 then. I also spoke about the good things Funke Akindele did in the industry,” he added.

He further revealed that after he left the set, Akindele reached out to him, expressing concern over his departure. “Akindele called me and asked why I left, and I told her that I was paid N190,000. She said I should have told her. And I said I thought you were aware,” he explained.

The comedian disclosed that he was later recalled to the set and his payment was adjusted to a daily rate of N55,000 or N65,000, which he now admits was a better arrangement.

Ijoba Lande concluded his statement with an apology to Funke Akindele and a plea to the public not to twist his words. “Please do not destroy my life. Now, if they sue me, where will I get the money to pay for fine?”

This incident highlights the importance of clear communication in the entertainment industry and the risks of misinterpreting or editing social media content out of context.