Nollywood actor Ijoba Lande has opened up about his disappointing experience while working alongside renowned actress Funke Akindele for a movie in 2017.
According to him in an Instagram live video, after dedicating an entire month to a film production at Amen Estate, Lande revealed he was compensated with just N90,000, a sum he found disheartening given the time and effort he invested.
In hindsight, he emphasized the need for aspiring actors to avoid idolizing industry figures without understanding the business side of acting.
He stressed the importance of negotiating payment terms upfront. Lande expressed regret for not having addressed his compensation before committing to the project, highlighting that this oversight was a crucial learning experience.
The reaction on social media platform X (formerly known as Twitter) has been mixed, with various users weighing in on the situation.
User @1suduji criticized Lande’s approach, remarking, “I detest opportunist people. Just because you’ve gained sudden fame doesn’t give you the right to accuse someone publicly without sufficient evidence. While I’m not defending Akindele, it’s important to recognize the facts.”
Conversely, @ex_ezekiel offered a different perspective, suggesting, “When your only understanding of payment revolves around cash, it’s easy to make statements like this. Remember, networking, endorsements, and gaining experience can lead to much greater financial rewards in the long run if you grasp their value.”
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User @urcgyzz provided practical advice, stating, “Always negotiate your fees before starting any work. Are you insisting on upfront payment? If a specific figure is important to you, consider negotiating royalties as well. If you want full payment upfront, make sure to include a Sunset clause in your contract. If they’ve reached out to you, they likely recognize your worth.”
Meanwhile, @abiodun_joko questioned the basis of Lande’s grievances, asking, “What was your role for an entire month on set? Funke and others have earned far less during tough times early in their careers. You should feel grateful to have participated in a project that likely has box office potential.”
Lastly, @kenomy13 highlighted the necessity for clear communication in such arrangements, saying, “Payment should definitely be discussed before commencing any services. If there was no prior agreement, it might lead to ambiguity. This isn’t just about Akindele; it reflects broader issues within the industry that need addressing.”
The dialogue underscores the complexities of the entertainment industry, particularly regarding fair compensation and the nuances of contractual agreements.
