Iyabo Ojo Defends Movie Promotion Dance, Clashes with Nollywood Critics
Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has ignited a significant conversation across social media platforms after sharing a video of herself dancing energetically to promote her upcoming cinematic project. The mother of two posted the clip on Instagram as part of her publicity campaign for The Return of Arinzo, which is scheduled for a nationwide cinema premiere in April. In her caption, Ojo made her position unequivocally clear, stating she would utilize any effective method to ensure the success of her film.
Industry Debate Over Promotional Methods
Ojo's video arrives amidst a growing controversy within the Nigerian film industry regarding the appropriateness of dancing as a promotional tool. The debate was recently fueled by comments from several prominent colleagues. Acclaimed filmmaker Kunle Afolayan publicly criticized the trend, expressing disinterest in cinema earnings if substantial returns were not guaranteed, to which fellow actress Funke Akindele responded by advising against jealousy.
Veteran actress Omotola Jalade Ekeinde also weighed in, describing the practice as unprofessional, while media mogul Mo Abudu acknowledged the energy of practitioners like Akindele and Toyin Abraham but clarified that her brand prefers alternative marketing strategies.
Ojo's Fiery Response to Detractors
Iyabo Ojo had previously entered the fray, suggesting that jealousy might be a motivating factor behind the criticism and questioning who established the definitive rules for movie promotion. She advocated for allowing every professional to achieve success through their chosen methods, emphasizing that the current year is for action rather than mere discussion.
In her latest post, Ojo directly confronted her critics with a bold rhetorical question. She declared, "What nonsense is coming out of your mouth? Oya say, tufi kwa. Don't ever repeat it. Make I no dance ke? I go dance to promote my movie." She accompanied this statement with a caption announcing the film's release date and promising further updates regarding international screenings.
Overwhelming Support from Fans and Netizens
The online reaction to Ojo's dance video has been predominantly supportive, with numerous fans and colleagues expressing their enthusiasm. Influencer @enioluwaofficial commented, "Mama! Where's our cloth ooooooo! Let's start dancing!? Our film is coming!" while @abazee_productions added, "Back to back nonstop !!! Ogbono feli feli ??? As e dey hot ❤️"
Fellow actress @realmercyaigbe showed solidarity, writing, "???? We are Coming!!! Arinzo is coming!! Make we no dance ke? Prepared to be Tayad of us ?????" Other supporters like @lylaws and @thekeeyah.store also joined the chorus of encouragement, celebrating Ojo's unapologetic marketing approach.
Context of Previous Controversies
This incident follows another recent controversy involving Iyabo Ojo, where she was forced to deny allegations from gossip blog Gistlover. The blog claimed Ojo had provided her goddaughter, Fola Tinubu, with an aphrodisiac (kayamata) to attract men. Ojo issued a lengthy rebuttal, stating that Tinubu is a responsible adult and firmly denying any involvement with or distribution of such substances, emphasizing her sole desire is for her goddaughter's business success.
The ongoing debate highlights evolving marketing strategies within Nollywood and the tension between traditional professionalism and modern, social media-driven promotion techniques. As the April premiere date approaches, all eyes will be on the public reception of The Return of Arinzo and the continuing conversation about how films should be marketed in the digital age.
