- Funke Akindele urged Nigerians to say No to piracy, highlighting that recording videos at the Cinemas is piracy.
- Funke noted how she worked so hard on her new project, spent a lot of resources, and is still investing in the movie
Nollywood actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele has expressed her concerns about the prevalence of piracy in the Nigerian film industry.
In a recent video on Instagram, Funke Akindele urged her audience to take a stand against this practice, highlighting that it can have severe consequences for filmmakers and the industry as a whole.
The box office Queen pointed out that recording videos in cinemas is a form of piracy that can be detrimental to the success of a film.
She emphasized the importance of respecting the intellectual property rights of creators and the financial investments made in producing a movie.
She said:
“SAY NO TO PIRACY!!!
Recording short videos at the cinemas is piracy!!!
Please stop it!!!
Piracy is killing us!!
I worked so hard, on this project. Please I’m pleading do not be caught promoting piracy!!!
A lot of resources were and are still being invested in the movie Everybodylovesjenifa. Again, do not be caught encouraging piracy. Thank you”.
Similarly Actor Deyemi Okanlawon had also spoken out against piracy .
A fan had considered watching a pirated copy of Deyemi’s film due to financial constraints, but another fan, @l444nnu, generously provided complimentary tickets to five individuals, discouraging piracy.
Deyemi in appreciation to this gesture, stated it restored his faith in the goodwill of Nigerians.
He highlighted the challenges faced by producers, who often operate without governmental backing, and the severe consequences of piracy on the industry.
He emphasized that Nollywood producers, especially newbies like himself, receive minimal support from the government, financial institutions, or industry players.
Deyemi thanked @iamjoyessien for understanding the impact of piracy and @l444nnu for their kindness and support, which has renewed his hope in the Nigerian people.