Nigerian actor and producer Olaide Olabanji has spoken out about his strained relationship with actress Mercy Aigbe, accusing her of turning against him despite his role in her early career.

In a recent interview with media personality Oyinmomo, Olabanji said things changed after Aigbe became successful in the Yoruba movie industry. He claimed that their once close relationship is now marked by tension and distance.

Olabanji alleged that Aigbe’s attitude toward him shifted as her fame grew. He described her behavior as unfriendly and said she reacts negatively whenever she sees him or even his image. He went further to claim that her resentment has become extreme.

“She wishes I were dead,” he said, expressing shock at how things have unfolded between them.

The actor also shared how their connection began years ago. “I saw her in a shop in 2004 and asked her if she could act. She said yes, and I put her on. I brought Mercy Aigbe into the movie industry. I helped her,” Olabanji revealed.

Despite this, he said their relationship has now completely broken down. “Now she is blocking me. To her, it is as if I should no longer exist,” he added.

Olabanji also used the moment to reflect on how fame can affect personal relationships. He said he believes some people change after achieving success, noting that Aigbe, who he once knew to be friendly, now appears distant whenever they meet.

Olaide Olabanji’s claims have drawn attention to a long-standing personal rift between him and Mercy Aigbe. While he has shared his side of the story, Aigbe has not publicly responded to the allegations. It remains to be seen if she will address the claims or if the situation will continue unresolved.

Abiodun Ayoyinka Speaks on Hardship, Says ‘Papa Ajasco’ Trademark Limits His Opportunities

Veteran Nigerian actor Abiodun Ayoyinka has opened up about the difficult reality he has faced in recent years, revealing that the famous character that made him popular has also limited his career opportunities.

Ayoyinka is widely known for playing the comic father figure in the long running family sitcom Papa Ajasco and Company. The show became a household favourite across Nigeria and made the actor a familiar face to many viewers.

However, the veteran performer recently shared that life behind the scenes has been far from easy.

In an emotional interview with internet personality Lucky Udu, Ayoyinka explained that the character “Papa Ajasco” is officially registered by the production company. Because of that, he cannot freely use the identity for advertisements, endorsements, or personal projects.

“That particular character has been registered,” he said. “Anybody that wants to use me outside, they want to use me with the character with everything that I have. But it has never been easy for me. That’s why you don’t see me on adverts. You don’t see me on billboards and all that. So it’s painful.”

According to the actor, the situation has prevented him from accepting several opportunities that could have helped him financially.

“I don’t have the right. I can’t use the name unless I go and take permission,” Ayoyinka stated. “Because of this, I have limited opportunities.”

Ayoyinka also spoke about life after leaving public service. He said he retired about five years ago from his role with the Lagos State Council for Arts and Culture.

Since then, he said things have been very difficult.

“Things have never been okay,” he told his interviewer. “No car in my home, no house of my own. I don’t have a car.”

The veteran actor used the moment to speak honestly about his current situation and appeal to fans who have followed his career for many years.

Abiodun Ayoyinka’s story sheds light on the challenges some veteran entertainers face after their time in the spotlight. While his portrayal of Papa Ajasco remains one of the most memorable characters on Nigerian television, the actor says trademark restrictions and limited opportunities have made life difficult since his retirement. Many fans will now be watching to see what support or new opportunities may come his way.

Veteran Nollywood actress Joke Silva has shared the story of how she met her husband, Olu Jacobs, many years ago. According to her, their first meeting happened on a movie set, but it was not love at first sight for her.

Silva spoke about their love story during an appearance on TVC’s ‘Your View’. She explained that while many people were excited about Jacobs’ arrival on set, she did not fully understand who he was at the time.

“Yes, we met on stage, and when we met on a movie set, everybody knew the great Olu Jacobs was coming, except me. When he came, we got on very well, and I discovered his age only after we started dating because he looked so good. For him, it was love at first sight, but for me, it wasn’t,” she said.

The actress said they connected easily and built their relationship over time. She later discovered that Jacobs was older than she thought, but that did not stand in the way of their growing bond.

Their marriage has lasted for decades and has produced two children. Silva said one of the reasons their union has endured is her husband’s understanding nature.

“This older man allows you to get away with a lot of things”, she said.

Silva and Jacobs got married in 1985. At the time, she was 24 years old, while he was 44. Over the years, they have become one of Nollywood’s most respected couples.

Joke Silva’s story shows that lasting love does not always begin with instant attraction. What started as a simple meeting on a movie set grew into a strong marriage that has stood the test of time.

Their journey continues to inspire many fans who admire their commitment and long standing partnership.

“At other times, they said that the plane I boarded from Enugu to Ethiopia suddenly crashed and I didn’t survive. There was also a day, my wife woke up to prepare for church service, when her telephone rang and the caller said he heard that I passed away this morning. Last year, somebody from Ghana alleged that Pete Edochie was already in the grave.

“However, there was something late Nnamdi Azikwe thought me when I interviewed him. He said that anybody who’s wishing you death will die before you. All those people that wished Zik death died before him. That was what I learnt from Zik. On the 7th of March, I will be 79. My father died at 96, so we have longevity in my family,” Pete Edoche said.

Pete Edochie is regarded as one of Nollywood’s most respected figures, known for his deep voice, strong screen presence, and decades-long career in film and television.

The veteran actor’s response puts an end to the latest round of death rumours surrounding him. While false reports about celebrities continue to spread online, Pete Edochie has once again reassured the public that he is alive and well.