Nollywood actor Taye Arimoro has taken legal action against his colleague Peggy Ovire following a violent confrontation on a movie set that has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment industry. The actor is demanding a staggering ₦100 million in compensation for alleged assault and human rights violations.
The Incident That Sparked the Legal Battle
According to court documents filed by Arimoro, the conflict occurred on November 11, 2025, when his contract officially expired at 11:59 p.m. The actor claimed that when he attempted to leave the set, Peggy Ovire instructed her driver to block his vehicle, preventing his departure. Arimoro alleged that his car tires were deliberately deflated during the confrontation, effectively trapping him on the premises.
The situation escalated physically, resulting in visible injuries to the actor. Medical reports cited in the lawsuit indicate injuries including damaged gums, bruised lips, and even a fractured jaw, along with multiple bite marks and bruises across his body. Arimoro documented these injuries as evidence of the assault he endured.
Legal Action and Demands
Through his legal representatives from the Inibehe Effiong Chambers, Arimoro filed a formal lawsuit on November 18, 2025. The legal documents outline multiple constitutional violations, including infringement of his rights to personal liberty, freedom of movement, and human dignity.
The actor is demanding seven specific remedies from Peggy Ovire:
- Payment of ₦100 million in damages for emotional trauma, psychological distress, and financial losses
- A publicly posted video apology on all of Ovire's social media platforms
- Compensation for medical expenses related to his injuries
- Coverage of legal fees associated with the case
Arimoro's legal team has given Ovire a seven-day ultimatum to respond to these demands before they proceed with full legal action.
Social Media Evidence and Public Reaction
The actor took to Instagram to share photos of the legal charges filed against Peggy Ovire, generating significant attention from fans and colleagues. Meanwhile, CCTV footage that emerged online appeared to contradict Ovire's initial version of events, showing her adjusting her wig and preparing to confront Arimoro before the physical altercation.
Public reaction on social media has been divided, with many supporting Arimoro's decision to seek legal recourse. Instagram user michael.jewli commented: "I love your energy. It's time we start holding people accountable for their actions." Another user, emeldaambe, noted: "In other countries, the police would have been dispatched to arrest her and co-accomplices for assault, unlawful imprisonment and damage of property."
However, some expressed concern about the financial demand, with user thefavourazubuike__ questioning: "I'm wondering if she'd be able to pay 100m, talkmore of public apology."
Peggy Ovire's Counter-Allegations
In her initial response to the incident, Peggy Ovire presented a different account of what transpired on the movie set. The actress claimed that Arimoro had physically assaulted two crew members before she arrived to intervene. She stated that when she attempted to mediate, the situation had already escalated beyond control.
Ovire further alleged that Arimoro drove away while she was still near his vehicle, and that her driver was later discovered with a bleeding ear after reportedly being struck multiple times by the actor. These counter-allegations present a conflicting narrative that the courts will need to resolve.
The case represents one of the most high-profile legal conflicts within Nollywood in recent years, highlighting ongoing concerns about workplace safety and professional conduct within the Nigerian film industry. As both parties prepare their legal arguments, the entertainment community watches closely, aware that the outcome could set important precedents for conflict resolution in the sector.
