Nigerian actress and producer, Iyabo Ojo, has addressed the growing conversation surrounding her colleagues, Funke Akindele and Toyin Abraham, after a moment from the premiere of her new film, The Return of Arinzo, went viral.
The event, held on Sunday, March 29, 2026, at Balmoral Hall, Federal Palace Hotel in Victoria Island, Lagos, drew widespread attention following a brief but awkward moment between the two actresses. In a widely circulated video, Toyin Abraham is seen approaching Funke Akindele and attempting to greet her while slightly kneeling. Funke Akindele, however, appears unresponsive, keeping a straight face and looking away, a reaction many online interpreted as a snub.
The moment quickly sparked speculation about possible unresolved tension between the pair, with social media users questioning the state of their relationship. Some also called on Iyabo Ojo, who is known to be close to both actresses, to intervene.
In a lengthy Instagram post on March 31, the movie icon addressed critics and clarified her involvement in the long-standing tension, revealing that she had made several attempts to broker peace between them. According to her, she went to great lengths to resolve the issues between both actresses, even pleading with them to settle their differences.
“For those of you maligning my character, insulting me, and calling me unprintable names, this is for you!! Now, I need to set the record straight. This is the first and last time I will be talking about anything like this. I tried my very best to settle both of them, cried, knelt down, begged both parties to embrace peace,” she revealed.
Iyabo noted that although both parties eventually reconciled and were seen interacting publicly recently, there was an agreement to avoid airing grievances online and instead resolve issues privately. However, that understanding was later broken.
“Unfortunately, Dec came, Toyin made some complaints about her movie in cinemas claiming some people or person was trying to sabotage her… that sparked up a fresh beef,” she explained.
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The renowned filmmaker further explained that her relationship with Akindele has not always been smooth, admitting she once publicly criticized her over a project linked to Abraham but later realized her mistake and made peace with her.
“I once came online to drag Funke because of Toyin’s movie. That was a wrong move on my part, I should have handled it better,” she admitted, adding that they later reconciled and moved past their differences.
Addressing her movie, The Return of Arinzo, Ojo clarified that Abraham was initially part of the project but had to withdraw at the last minute.
“Toyin was supposed to be in it but she said she was exhausted… so she pulled out last minute. I was upset because it cost me a lot to rewrite the story, but the show must go on,” she said, noting that Abraham later apologized and they resolved the issue.
Despite her efforts, Ojo expressed disappointment over how things have unfolded and made it clear she is stepping back from the situation.
“Honestly, all this saddened me because the sky is big enough for all. I have tried my best, but at this point, I can’t beg anyone anymore. I honestly don’t want to get involved anymore,” she stated.
She concluded by urging the public to respect her decision while expressing continued love for both actresses. Iyabo also used the opportunity to promote her film, announcing that The Return of Arinzo will begin showing in cinemas nationwide from April 3, 2026.
“Please, you all should respect that… when both parties are ready, they will make peace… I love them both regardless.”
