Kemi Ikuseedun, widely recognized as Mummy Wa, has courageously spoken out about her encounters with unwanted advances in the movie industry.
The talented Nigerian skit maker and actress made these statements during her recent guest appearance on ‘WithChude Podcast,‘ hosted by Chude Jideonwo.
New Daily Prime recalls that Mummy Wa’s rise to popularity came in 2023, particularly following her notable performances alongside Mr Macaroni in various skits.
As her star began to shine, she also faced dark realities that many aspiring actresses encounter behind the scenes.
During her podcast interview, she shared candidly about her journey in the industry and the pressure she felt to comply with inappropriate demands from influential figures.
Reflecting on her experiences, Mummy Wa disclosed that numerous industry insiders attempted to solicit sexual favours in exchange for professional opportunities.
She articulated the inherent struggles that come with pursuing a career in a field fraught with such challenges: “Behind the scenes, a lot of people are asking for things.
They are requesting for a whole lot of things that I cannot do.” Her poignant words resonate with the frustrations many women face in the entertainment realm, where the line between talent and exploitation can often become blurred.
The actress emphasized the emotional toll of these predatory behaviours, sharing her thoughts on the demanding and often degrading choices that aspiring actresses are faced with.
“Where do I want to start from? I’m already coming from a place where they tell me ‘This thing will not work’. How many people do I want to sleep with?”
Her raw honesty sheds light on the complex dynamics of power and vulnerability that exist in the industry.
During her discussion, Mummy Wa also highlighted the grim reality that succumbing to such requests does not guarantee success: “To be honest, you might sleep with somebody in the industry and you will still not blow with the role they will give you.”
This startling admission reflects a harsh truth; that women may find themselves objectified, yet still not gain the recognition they seek despite compromising their principles or integrity.
Even more alarming is Mummy Wa’s assertion that sexual exploitation is a pervasive issue affecting all women in the industry, regardless of their stature or the roles they play.
“I saw a lot of men. But guess what? Even the slim ones that don’t have anything, they are still asking for things from them,” she remarked, illustrating that the battle against harassment is not confined to a specific demographic but is a widespread epidemic.
With her revelations, Mummy Wa emphasizes the pressing need for a cultural shift within the entertainment industry, one that prioritizes respect over-exploitation and genuine talent over transactional relationships.
“No woman is free. No woman is immune. But I can’t do it,” she concluded, standing firm in her convictions despite the challenges she faces.
However, Kemi Ikuseedun’s bravery in sharing her experiences serves as a beacon of hope for others, encouraging them to speak out against harassment and uphold their dignity in a landscape where exploitation has unfortunately been normalized for too long.
Her words resonate not only with those directly involved in the film industry but also with a broader audience, rallying for a more equitable and respectful space for all artists.
As conversations surrounding consent and women’s rights continue to gain momentum, Mummy Wa’s testimony underscores the critical need for systemic change to combat sexual harassment in every sphere of society, including the arts and entertainment.
