Nigerian comedian Ijoba Lande has accused popular filmmaker Funke Akindele of underpaying him after participating in one of her film projects.
In a video currently circulating on social media, Lande claimed he spent a month on set at Amen Estate but received only ₦90,000 in compensation. He alleged that he signed a contract he believed was a formality, only to later discover the payment terms were binding.
“I went to work for Funke Akindele in Amen Estate for one month. I was on set for one whole month,” he said in the video. “When I got there, the producer gave me a form to sign and I saw that I’ll be paid ₦90,000 every month. I was shocked, but I had already started working for them.”
Lande, who described his experience as disappointing, said he refrained from negotiating his payment upfront due to Akindele’s status in the industry. “I didn’t want to bill her because of her status,” he added. “But now, even if Michael Jackson asks me to work, I’ll let him know my rates.”
He further advised aspiring actors not to assume any job offer is a favour, urging them to clarify payment terms before accepting roles. “Don’t see anyone as a god,” he said. “If you really need me, you’ll pay.”
The comedian also disclosed that despite multiple appearances on set, he never took photos with Akindele, alleging that she did not make herself available.
As of the time of this report, Funke Akindele has not issued a response to the allegations.