Deyemi Okanlawon has shed light on the crippling effects of piracy on Nollywood, while celebrating an unexpected display of consumer consciousness from his fans.
The conversation around piracy in Nigeria’s film industry took a compelling turn when a social media interaction between Okanlawon’s fans went viral. The exchange began when one fan openly contemplated watching a pirated version of the actor’s latest film, citing financial constraints. The situation took an inspiring twist when another fan stepped forward, offering to purchase cinema tickets for five people, demonstrating a commendable stance against piracy.
This incident prompted Okanlawon to share his profound insights into the challenges facing Nollywood producers. We end up spending all we have to produce these films,” the actor revealed, highlighting the significant personal and financial risks taken by filmmakers. He emphasized how producers, particularly newcomers like himself and his partners at Bleeding Art Production, struggle to create globally competitive content with minimal institutional support.
The actor’s frustration was palpable as he addressed the disconnect between filmmakers’ dedication and audience awareness. “Nigerians have no idea how much damage and loss their participation in piracy causes our industry,” Okanlawon stated, pointing to the stark reality that the very audience they aim to serve often undermines their efforts through piracy.
The issue of piracy in Nollywood has become increasingly pressing, with several high-profile incidents making headlines in recent months. Notable among these was actress Toyin Abraham’s decisive action against piracy threats to her film “Malaika,” a project that reportedly cost over five hundred million naira to produce. Abraham’s swift response led to the arrest of five suspects and the removal of illegal distribution links, setting a precedent for how the industry might combat such threats.
Similarly, actress Wumi Toriola made headlines when she publicly confronted viewers asking about illegal streaming options for her cinema release. Her emotional response, including a passionate condemnation delivered in her native dialect, underscored the personal toll piracy takes on filmmakers who invest significantly in their craft.
The industry’s struggle against piracy is complicated by several factors, including limited governmental support and restricted access to financial institutions’ backing. Despite various initiatives, including the much-discussed creative industry fund, many filmmakers find themselves personally financing their projects, making the impact of piracy particularly devastating.
However, Okanlawon’s recent experience has offered a glimmer of hope. The actor expressed profound gratitude to the fan who offered to purchase tickets, stating that such actions “renewed my hope in our people.” This incident highlights the potential for positive change when audiences understand the real impact of their consumption choices.
The conversation around piracy in Nollywood reveals a complex interplay between artistic ambition, economic realities, and consumer behavior. While filmmakers strive to create content that can compete on a global stage, they face the dual challenge of limited institutional support and widespread piracy. The industry’s future may well depend on fostering greater awareness among viewers about how their choices directly impact the sustainability of Nigerian cinema.
As Nollywood continues to gain international recognition and produce higher-quality content, the support of its domestic audience becomes increasingly crucial. The incident highlighted by Okanlawon suggests that with proper education and awareness, Nigerian audiences might become more conscious of their role in supporting the industry’s growth and sustainability.
This ongoing battle against piracy represents more than just a fight for profits; it’s a struggle to preserve and nurture Nigeria’s cultural voice in the global entertainment landscape. As more stakeholders join the conversation, there’s hope that collaborative efforts between filmmakers, audiences, and institutions might forge a path toward a more sustainable future for Nigerian cinema.
