Popular Nollywood actor Olatayo Amokade, widely known as Ijebu, has taken to social media to express his dissatisfaction with the organizers of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), alleging fraudulent practices in the selection of award winners. In a video that has since gone viral, Ijebu can be seen chanting “ojoro,” which translates to “fraud” in English, seemingly directed at the recently concluded award show.
Although Ijebu did not explicitly mention AMVCA, he hinted at the awards by mentioning the absence of recognition for Femi Adebayo’s movies, suggesting that they had been overlooked. He expressed disappointment that Femi Adebayo’s latest film, ‘Ageshinkole’ in particular, did not receive any accolades during the event.
The video sparked a range of reactions from fans and industry observers. Some individuals agreed with Ijebu’s allegations of foul play, while others argued that Femi Adebayo’s movie, “Ageshinloke,” might not have garnered enough votes to secure an award at the AMVCA. Reacting… One social media user, Simply Fadekemi wrote; What about Kunle Remi and Ibrahim Chata that was not even nominated? Too bad”. Another user, Omoolamubo added; “U can’t say is Ojoro fully bcos award is not really about personality or being a popular actor is about interpretation of the characters in the particular movie example best actor was given to Tobi where chidi mokeme and other top legendary actors are in the same category (2) same in music everyone knows Tiwa is most popular female musician in Nigeria yet Tems got Grammy before bcos of 1 song ,so bro sometimes let put personal interest aside and see things from the true angle” Essy Gold, another user commented; “Did you guys vote your own? Until y’all start uniting and doing things in unity it’ll continue to look like ojoro to y’all. I’m sure some of your Yoruba molly people voted the winner. Ẹnu nìkan ni gbogbo yín ni bìtì ajakara, you don’t support one another“. On the other hand, a user named Ashabi wrote; Award should be score by a filmmaker not a film watcher , looking at characters interpretation, flexibility and energy , Ageshinkole is far better than that particular movie Dey compare it with gan” Responding to the debate, Oritse Kemi added; “Bro don’t compare Anikulapo to any movie pls no movies stand Anikulapo almost everyone in Nigeria watch it Agesinkule is Yoruba how many Igbo or Hausas hear Yoruba” The allegations raised by Ijebu have ignited discussions surrounding transparency and fairness in the AMVCA awards, with fans expressing diverse opinions on the matter. As the controversy unfolds, it remains to be seen whether the AMVCA organizers will address the concerns raised by the Nollywood actor and take steps to ensure a more inclusive and unbiased selection process in future editions of the prestigious award ceremony. See below;