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Pirating my new movie will destroy my hard work, Funke Akindele pleads

Nollywood star Funke Akindele has made an emotional plea to Nigerians to say no to piracy as she prepares for the release of her much-anticipated movie, Everybody Loves Jenifa, set to hit cinemas on December 13.

The actress and filmmaker, known as a box-office queen, expressed her concern about the detrimental impact piracy has on the Nollywood industry.

Taking to her social media, Funke called out the practice of recording videos at cinemas, labeling it an act of piracy that is “killing” the industry. She shared her struggles and investments in creating the new project, pleading with fans to respect the hard work that goes into filmmaking.

“Say No To priracy! Recording short videos at the cinemas is piracy!!! Please stop it!!! Piracy is killing us!! I worked so hard on this project. Please, I’m pleading, do not be caught promoting piracy! A lot of resources were and are still being invested in Everybody Loves Jenifa. Again, do not be caught encouraging piracy. Thank you,” Funke wrote passionately.

This appeal comes amidst growing concerns about piracy in Nollywood, which has often left filmmakers grappling with significant financial losses. Funke’s heartfelt message resonated with her colleagues and fans alike, drawing attention to the issue of intellectual property theft.

Last month, actor Deyemi Okanlawon also raised concerns about piracy. He shared a story of a fan who attempted to access a pirated version of his latest movie but was called out by another fan who then offered to buy tickets for five people to watch the film legally. Deyemi commended the fan’s gesture, noting the challenges faced by Nollywood producers, particularly newcomers, who strive to tell global-level stories with little or no support from the government or financial institutions.

Deyemi highlighted the financial toll piracy inflicts on the industry, stating, “Nigerians have no idea how much damage and loss their participation in piracy causes us. But when I see gestures like this, it gives me hope that there are still people who care.”

Similarly, actress Wumi Toriola, who made her debut in cinema production in October, addressed the issue by confronting fans who inquired if her movie would be available on platforms like YouTube or Telegram. Frustrated, Wumi took to Instagram Live to express her dismay, going as far as to lay curses in her dialect on those perpetuating piracy.

Segun Adebayo