Acclaimed Nollywood filmmaker Obi Emelonye, known for Mirror Boy, Last Flight to Abuja, and Badamasi, recently sat down with media guru Chude Jideonwo for an eye-opening conversation about power, betrayal, and the realities of filmmaking.
During the interview, Emelonye reflected on his personal relationship with Nigeria’s former head of state, Ibrahim Babangida. Despite Babangida’s controversial legacy, Emelonye insists he is a good man. However, he also shared how Babangida personally promised to fund Badamasi but later abandoned him midway, leaving him in significant debt. The film, which was supposed to be his big break and a comfortable retirement plan, instead became a financial burden.
Emelonye also spoke about Babangida’s habit of dodging difficult situations, a trait that earned him the nickname “Maradona.” He explained how this tendency, even in moments that could have salvaged his legacy, continues to define the former leader.
Beyond politics, Emelonye opened up about his own struggles in Nollywood. After his first films, he was scammed and forced to step away from filmmaking for ten years. When he returned with Mirror Boy, Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde turned down the lead role before Genevieve Nnaji eventually accepted. He also reflected on his early career, revealing that he embarked on his own “Japa” journey in the 90s, long before the term became popular, as he sought opportunities abroad after Nollywood nearly broke him.
On a personal note, he shared how his wife initially rejected his marriage proposal, a heartbreak that later became a defining moment in his life. In a symbolic gesture, he chose his wedding anniversary as a marker of resilience and reinvention.
Despite the setbacks, Emelonye remains one of Nollywood’s most fearless storytellers.
Watch full video here : https://www.withchude.com/watch/a3b45f99-ff8b-40ce-b868-8fc3e31c5f9e
