Veteran Nollywood actress, Moji Afolayan, has finally opened up about her sudden absence from the movie industry for over ten years.
In a recent interview, she revealed the shocking reason behind her long break from the screen.
The 57-year-old thespian, who is married to fellow actor Ojopagogo, said she was deliberately blacklisted by film marketers after rejecting their sexual advances. Her revelation has sparked fresh conversations around exploitation in the Nigerian film industry.
Fans left in the dark for years
Moji’s sudden disappearance from Nollywood had raised questions among fans and movie lovers. Many wondered why the once-popular actress, known for her grace and talent, suddenly vanished at the height of her career.
According to New Daily Prime, her absence led to speculations about her health, family life, and whether she had quit acting for good.
But in a tell-all interview with Oyinmomo TV, the actress explained that her decision to uphold her values came at a heavy cost.
“I refused to sleep with them” — Moji Afolayan speaks out
During the interview, Moji Afolayan did not hold back. She said her refusal to give in to sexual demands from industry insiders, especially movie marketers, led to her being pushed out of the industry.
“Back then, marketers were the ones funding producers to shoot movies,” she said. “Because I refused their sexual advances, they called a meeting and agreed not to cast me again. That was how I was blacklisted.”
The actress stated firmly that she never allowed anyone to take advantage of her body, even if it meant losing out on roles and money. “I didn’t sleep with anyone because I won’t trade my body for film roles. That’s my principle,” she said.
Moji Afolayan also alleged that many married actresses were involved in such transactions. “Some of them go to marketers with their husbands, who wait outside while they go in to negotiate roles in exchange for sex,” she added.
“They became stars, but I kept my dignity”
Moji Afolayan admitted that her stance affected her career, especially in terms of fame and income. However, she remains proud of the choice she made.
“Those who did it were on every poster. The marketers made them stars. But I thank God that I stood with my dignity. That’s what I’m enjoying today,” she said.
While she may have missed out on major roles, Moji said she values her body and self-respect more than the spotlight. “It affected my popularity, but I cherish my body more than anything else. Even my husband knows that,” she said.
Social media changed the game
Despite being sidelined by marketers, Moji Afolayan noted that the rise of digital platforms like YouTube has changed the power structure in Nollywood. Filmmakers and actors can now bypass traditional gatekeepers.
“They now know how it feels,” she said. “Social media has empowered us. We now promote and release our movies on YouTube without needing marketers. The game has changed.”
She said this shift has allowed her and other actors who once faced discrimination to take control of their content and careers.
A legacy of strength and integrity
Moji Afolayan comes from a respected movie family and has built a legacy of talent and integrity. Her father, the late veteran actor Ade Love, was one of the pioneers of Yoruba cinema.
Today, she continues to inspire younger actors by standing firm in her values. Her story sheds light on the darker side of Nollywood, one that many are often afraid to speak about.
Her courage in telling her truth may just open the door for wider conversations about sexual harassment, power abuse, and the need for reform in the industry.
Read Also: Jumoke George reveals 14-year Nollywood absence reasons
