Veteran Nollywood actor Raymmy Shittabey has publicly addressed his long-standing rift with Yoruba cinema legend Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello, admitting that the fallout has had tangible consequences on his career. In an interview on Agbaletu TV, published on YouTube on August 1, 2026, Shittabey expressed deep affection for Oga Bello despite the unresolved tension, revealing that he has apologized multiple times but has not been forgiven.
Shittabey Recalls Oga Bello as a Mentor and Father Figure
Shittabey painted a warm picture of their early bond, describing how he and fellow actor Alade Aromire would trek to Oga Bello's home in Ebute Meta during their lean years in the industry. He portrayed Oga Bello as a generous and nurturing figure who ensured younger talents around him were fed and financially supported before they left his home.
"Back when he lived in Ebute Meta, I saw him as a father. Alade Aromire and I used to trek to his house. He is very generous, so whenever we were broke, we knew we would eat there, and he would even give us money before we left," Shittabey said.
Lost Opportunities and an Unanswered Apology
Despite the warmth he still feels, Shittabey acknowledged that something went wrong along the way. He maintained that he never deliberately wronged Oga Bello, but that the veteran actor believes otherwise, and that belief has shaped his professional trajectory. According to Shittabey, Oga Bello holds considerable influence over key decisions within the movie industry, and once the elder actor takes a position, it tends to be final.
"I love Oga Bello so much, and he knows it, but he doesn't like me because he believes I offended him. I didn't offend him, but he thinks I did. There is nothing he wants to do that I wouldn't attend or honour his invitation to. I have always seen him as a father," he said.
He continued: "He believes I offended him, and although I have begged him, he hasn't forgiven me. Because of that, I lost many opportunities since he is often the deciding factor in certain things, and once he makes a decision, it is final. I don't want to say more about it, but I still love him to this day."
Shittabey Keeps Details of the Fallout Private
Shittabey, however, did not reveal the specific incident that Oga Bello believes sparked the falling-out, leaving that part of the story unaddressed. The interview has sparked reactions among fans and industry colleagues, many of whom have taken to social media to express their support for Shittabey and their hopes for a reconciliation.
Oga Bello's Own Struggles in the Industry
Earlier, Legit.ng reported that Oga Bello recalled nearly quitting acting after suffering devastating losses and false accusations. He shared that the deaths of his mentor, Baba Mero, and the late actor's wife left him shattered and emotionally drained. Despite the trauma and public allegations, Oga Bello said he chose to continue acting to preserve his mentor's legacy and lead the theatre troupe forward.
The rift between Shittabey and Oga Bello underscores the complex dynamics within Nollywood, where personal relationships often intersect with professional opportunities. As Shittabey continues to navigate his career, his public plea for forgiveness highlights the enduring impact of unresolved disputes in the industry.
