A heated controversy has erupted on Nigerian social media platforms following the emergence of a passionate kissing scene featuring prominent Nollywood actor Daniel Etim Effiong and actress Bolaji Ogunmola.
Social Media Erupts in Debate
The clip, which quickly went viral, was initially shared on November 26, 2025, in a tweet that praised the on-screen chemistry between the two actors. The original poster claimed that "no one in Nollywood kisses better than these two." However, the comment section swiftly transformed into a battleground, sparking a intense discussion about the boundaries for married actors in the film industry.
Criticism and Defense Clash Online
A significant number of social media users directed their criticism squarely at Daniel Etim Effiong, questioning his frequent participation in romantic roles despite being a married man. One user expressed a common sentiment, writing, "This guy is becoming annoying at this point. Why is a married man always in these romantic movies?" The criticism escalated with some comments suggesting his wife had "valid reasons to crash out," while others stated that no spouse would comfortably watch their partner engage in such passionate on-screen intimacy.
Despite the overwhelming backlash, a segment of netizens came to the actor's defense. These supporters emphasized that acting is a profession, and such scenes are a fundamental part of the job. One defender pointedly asked, "You people know this kiss is strictly between the characters, right? It's called acting for a reason." This perspective highlighted the ongoing tension between an artist's professional duties and public perceptions of their personal life.
Broader Implications for Nollywood
The online dragging continued with many users joking that they could "never marry an actor or actress" because witnessing their partner "twist tongue in the name of acting" would be unacceptable. This incident, shared via a post on the popular blog Linda Ikeji's Instagram page, underscores the persistent debate regarding realism in Nollywood and the personal lives of its stars. The conversation has expanded beyond the single clip, forcing a broader examination of marriage, professional boundaries, and the evolving nature of romantic roles in Nigerian cinema.
