A major controversy has erupted in the Nigerian entertainment industry following the actions of actor Aremu Afolayan, the younger brother of acclaimed filmmaker Kunle Afolayan. A viral video from a star-studded birthday party has ignited fierce criticism and a debate about appropriate conduct.
The Viral Incident at Arike Gold's Party
The incident that sparked the uproar took place at the 40th birthday celebration of popular Nollywood actress Folorunsho Adeola, widely known as Arike Gold. The event, held on January 5, 2026, was attended by numerous industry heavyweights including Wunmi Toriola, Bukola Adeeyo, Fathia Williams, Laide Bakare, Mr Latin, and Afeez Owo.
According to footage shared by the Instagram page Asoebi Styles, Aremu Afolayan was posing for photographs with actresses Laide Bakare and Bimbo Thomas. During this interaction, he was seen making an inappropriate physical gesture, specifically touching Bimbo Thomas in a private area. The clip quickly spread across social media platforms, drawing immediate and widespread condemnation.
Social Media Erupts in Backlash
The public reaction to the video was swift and severe. Many social media users expressed disgust and anger, calling out the actor for his lack of boundaries and respect.
User @sunshine_needles questioned: "Bro aremu e go ooooo???e Mo iyato omu ati ikun ni?" implying a clear distinction should be known between different parts of the body.
Others were more direct in their criticism. @elohorovie4857 asked: "Why will you touch someone like that??", while @iyemaale described the act as "disgusting" and urged the actor to "embrace some decorum and social etiquette."
However, a few commentators offered a different perspective, suggesting the act might have been misinterpreted or that the individuals involved share a close relationship off-camera. User @unusual_libra_twenty_5 noted, "none of us know what goes on between them off cameras," advising others not to be overly surprised by actions among celebrities.
Silence from the Parties Involved
As the online storm continues to grow, neither Aremu Afolayan nor Bimbo Thomas has issued a public statement addressing the controversial video. This silence has only fueled further speculation and discussion among netizens and industry observers.
This is not the first time Aremu Afolayan has been at the centre of online discourse. Legit.ng previously reported that the actor had expressed regret for not engaging in internet fraud, popularly known as 'Yahoo Yahoo'. In a social media post reacting to a fuel price hike, he stated, "All the days wey dem dey talk about Yahoo Yahoo, na today I regret pass sey I no do am. Legitimate hustling never felt super useless."
In a contrasting show of generosity, Aremu was also in the news for gifting comedian-turned-prophet Woli Arole a brand-new SUV, insisting the prophet must pray for new clients for his business in return.
Calls for Accountability in Nollywood
The incident has transcended mere gossip to trigger a significant conversation about accountability, respect, and professional behaviour within the Nigerian film industry. Many are using the moment to call for clearer standards of conduct at public gatherings and events, emphasizing that celebrity status does not excuse inappropriate actions.
The backlash places Aremu Afolayan, who benefits from the fame of his renowned brother Kunle Afolayan, under intense scrutiny. It remains to be seen how this controversy will affect his public image and career moving forward, and whether it will lead to a broader movement advocating for more respectful interactions in Nollywood's social spaces.
