Rotimi Salami Engages in Heated Exchange Over Use of Late Actress's Image
Nollywood actor Rotimi Salami found himself at the center of a social media controversy after a critic accused him of exploiting the memory of late actress Allwell Ademola to promote his new cinema movie. The dispute erupted online when a troll questioned Salami's decision to share photos of Ademola as part of the promotional campaign for his film Kilanko, which was directed by Ademola before her untimely death in December 2025.
Critic Urges Actor to Let Deceased Rest Peacefully
The critic, whose identity remains undisclosed, directly called out Salami on social media, stating, "I don't know why you are using this lady to sell film. Please, let her rest peacefully." This comment ignited a fiery response from the actor, who defended his actions by emphasizing the importance of celebrating the work and legacy of those who have passed away. Salami expressed disappointment, remarking that some individuals speak from a place of ignorance and fail to understand the value of honoring a colleague's contributions.
In his defense, Salami argued that there is nothing inappropriate about promoting a project that a deceased loved one was passionate about. He suggested that hiding such efforts would be a disservice to their memory, urging critics to reconsider their perspectives on posthumous recognition in the creative industries.
Salami Addresses Ademola's Death and Health Background
During an interview on Oyinmomo TV, Salami further elaborated on the circumstances surrounding Allwell Ademola's passing. He clarified that her death was due to cardiac arrest, a condition that can affect anyone regardless of their health habits. Salami noted that many of Ademola's close colleagues were aware she had asthma, but she maintained a vigilant approach to her well-being, never taking her health for granted.
Ademola's death was confirmed by several Nollywood stars, including Damola Olatunji, Mr Latin, Faithia Williams, and Bidemi Kosoko, who paid heartfelt tributes on social media. A Service of Songs and candlelight procession was held in her honor on January 8, followed by her burial the next day, highlighting the deep impact she had on the entertainment community.
Social Media Reactions and Fan Support
The online clash between Salami and the critic sparked a wave of reactions from fans and followers, with many expressing support for the actor's stance. Comments ranged from criticism of the troll's insensitivity to praise for Salami's dedication to preserving Ademola's legacy. One user, ifeloveyy, emphasized that Ademola would have been proud to see her work promoted, stating, "If she's alive, she'd carry the movie on her head pass the producer himself... That'll definitely make her happy wherever she is!"
Other fans, such as partyjolloftv and toyinbanjo, commended Salami for his efforts, labeling the critic's comments as insensitive and affirming that acknowledging Ademola's contributions is a respectful tribute. The debate underscored broader discussions about how the entertainment industry should handle the legacies of deceased artists, balancing promotion with sensitivity.
Legacy of Allwell Ademola and Her Final Wishes
Allwell Ademola's sudden death sent shockwaves through Nollywood, with her last video surfacing online hours before she passed. In the footage, she sang optimistically about seeing the end of 2025, a poignant reminder of her vibrant spirit. Her involvement in Kilanko as director represents a significant part of her artistic legacy, which Salami aims to honor through the film's release.
This incident highlights the emotional complexities faced by public figures when navigating grief and professional responsibilities. As Salami continues to promote Kilanko, the conversation serves as a testament to Ademola's enduring influence and the ongoing challenges in memorializing cultural icons in the digital age.
