Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar has officially initiated a legal battle against Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), seeking N30 billion in damages. The legal action follows a series of events that Abubakar claims have seriously impacted her reputation and career in the Nigerian film industry.
The lawsuit is rooted in allegations that Rollas made damaging statements about Halima Abubakar, which she argues were not only defamatory but also severely harmed her professional standing. The actress has stated that these remarks have caused her significant emotional distress, financial losses, and have affected her ability to secure acting roles and other professional opportunities within the highly competitive Nollywood industry.
The legal action stems from an incident that occurred on October 17, 2024, when the AGN, under the leadership of Emeka Rollas, announced Abubakar’s indefinite suspension from the guild. The suspension was communicated to the public via Rollas’ social media handle, a move that Abubakar contends was a deliberate attempt to damage her public image.
According to the AGN, the suspension was enacted following allegations that Abubakar had spread defamatory information about members of the guild. The actress was accused of circulating rumors regarding extramarital affairs involving high-profile individuals in the entertainment industry. These accusations sparked widespread controversy and ignited discussions surrounding professionalism, respect, and the responsibilities of public figures in maintaining integrity within the Nollywood community.
Abubakar’s suspension has garnered significant attention from fans, fellow actors, and members of the public, who are divided over the handling of the situation. Many believe that the issue highlights the challenges Nollywood faces in balancing personal lives and public personas, especially in an industry that is often scrutinized by the media and public alike.
In response to the suspension, Halima Abubakar has expressed her shock and disappointment. She claims that she was not given prior notice or an opportunity to address the allegations before the AGN made the decision public through social media. The actress described the move as an unjust attack on her character during a difficult period in her life.
In a letter dated October 20, 2024, Abubakar’s legal team, P.D. Pius & Associates, formally addressed the issue, condemning Rollas’ actions and accusing him of intentionally tarnishing their client’s reputation. The letter stated, “Our client has been battling health issues for years, and despite maintaining a professional relationship with you, you chose this delicate moment during her recovery to spread a negative and false narrative.”
Abubakar’s legal representatives argued that the false claims have caused her great emotional distress and have irreparably damaged her reputation in the film industry. They emphasized that Rollas’ statements have directly impacted her ability to maintain professional engagements and relationships within Nollywood.
As part of their demands, the solicitors requested that the defamatory publication be removed immediately and that Rollas issue a formal public apology on his Instagram page. This public apology, they argue, is necessary to restore some of the reputational damage caused by the AGN President’s statements.
In addition to the public apology, Abubakar is seeking N30 billion in damages as compensation for the harm caused to her reputation, career prospects, and emotional well-being. Her legal team has made it clear that this sum reflects the severity of the impact Rollas’ actions have had on her professional life and mental health.
The letter concluded with a clear warning that if these demands are not met within a seven-day period, Halima Abubakar will proceed with further legal action. The actress and her legal team are determined to hold Rollas and the AGN accountable for the alleged defamation and the subsequent consequences it has had on her personal and professional life.