Nollywood veteran Kanayo O. Kanayo has taken to social media to voice his frustration with Meta, the parent company of Instagram, accusing the platform of unfair treatment and neglect toward content creators like himself. In a candid video message shared on Instagram, the renowned actor expressed deep concern over the inexplicable decline in his followership, a trend he claims is not unique to him but affects many others within the creative community.
Kanayo’s grievance stems from what he perceives as an anomaly in Instagram’s algorithm and user engagement metrics. The actor revealed that for the past seven to eight months, his follower count, which once stood at approximately 2.2 or 2.3 million, had inexplicably dropped to around 1.9 million. More alarmingly, he pointed out that during this period, his account failed to gain even a thousand new followers—a stark deviation from the norm for someone with his level of influence and popularity.
“I have noticed that for the past seven to eight months, my Instagram page followership which was about 2.2 or 2.3 million was brought down to 1.9 million,” Kanayo stated in the video. He went on to question how it could be possible for someone in his position—not to mention countless other content creators—to go such an extended period without adding any significant number of followers. His argument carries weight, especially considering the consistent output of content by these individuals who rely heavily on platforms like Instagram to connect with their audience.
The Nollywood icon further emphasized that this issue extends beyond just his personal experience. “It’s a matter of concern because it’s happening to a lot of people,” he remarked, highlighting the broader implications for content creators whose livelihoods depend on maintaining active and growing audiences. Many influencers and artists use social media as both a promotional tool and a source of income through collaborations, sponsorships, and brand partnerships. When algorithms suppress visibility or artificially limit growth, it directly impacts their ability to sustain themselves financially.
Kanayo accused Instagram of treating its users unfairly, particularly those who contribute significantly to the platform’s success. “We are using a platform that we have no control over and the way that they are treating us is very bad,” he lamented. This sentiment echoes concerns raised by numerous content creators globally, who feel powerless against opaque algorithms and ever-changing policies dictated by tech giants. While Instagram provides a space for self-expression and connection, it also wields immense power over who gets seen and heard, often leaving creators feeling marginalized or overlooked.
In addressing Meta directly, Kanayo stressed the importance of mutual benefit between the platform and its users. “So I’m calling on the owners of Instagram to treat us like content creators; it’s beneficial to you as well as it’s complementary beneficial to us,” he urged. His plea underscores the symbiotic relationship between content creators and social media companies. Platforms like Instagram thrive on the creativity and engagement generated by their users, yet too often, these contributors are treated as secondary stakeholders rather than equal partners.
This issue is not isolated to Nigeria or Africa alone. Across the globe, content creators face similar challenges related to algorithmic bias, shadow bans, and inconsistent enforcement of rules. For instance, some users report sudden drops in reach despite adhering to guidelines, while others find themselves penalized for posting content deemed controversial but necessary for meaningful discourse. These inconsistencies create frustration and distrust among creators, eroding the very foundation of trust required for a thriving digital ecosystem.
For someone like Kanayo O. Kanayo, whose career spans decades in the entertainment industry, social media serves as a vital bridge connecting him with fans old and new. His presence on platforms like Instagram allows him to share updates, promote projects, and engage with admirers in ways previously unimaginable. However, when algorithms hinder organic growth or suppress visibility, it disrupts this crucial link, undermining the hard work and dedication invested by creators.
The actor’s public callout also highlights the broader debate surrounding the ethics and accountability of big tech companies. As platforms like Instagram continue to evolve, there is increasing scrutiny over how they prioritize certain voices over others and whether their decisions align with fairness and transparency principles. Critics argue that without clear communication channels or mechanisms for redress, creators remain vulnerable to arbitrary actions that can derail their careers.
Moving forward, Kanayo’s appeal to Meta represents more than just a personal grievance—it symbolizes a collective cry for recognition and equitable treatment. By urging the company to acknowledge the value of content creators and adjust its practices accordingly, he joins a growing chorus of voices advocating for systemic change. Such reforms would include greater transparency regarding algorithmic processes, fairer distribution of resources, and stronger support systems for creators navigating the complexities of modern digital landscapes.
While only time will tell if Meta responds positively to Kanayo’s concerns, his bold stance serves as a reminder of the power held by influential figures in driving meaningful conversations. Through his advocacy, he not only champions his own cause but also amplifies the struggles faced by countless others striving to make their mark in today’s competitive online environment.
Ultimately, Kanayo O. Kanayo’s message resonates deeply with anyone who relies on social media for professional or personal fulfillment. It calls attention to the urgent need for balance and reciprocity in creator-platform relationships, ensuring that all parties involved receive the respect and opportunities they deserve. As discussions around digital rights and responsibilities intensify, one thing remains clear: the future of content creation depends on fostering collaboration, understanding, and mutual respect between creators and the platforms they call home.
