In a statement signed by AGN National President Emeka Rollas, the guild described the incident as a “disturbing video and voice note” depicting an actor being “brutally assaulted” by a producer and members of her crew during a late-night shoot in Lagos.
According to Arimoro, the incident escalated after he attempted to leave the set around midnight, following his contracted hours. He alleged on a widely shared Instagram Live broadcast that Ovire’s team blocked his vehicle, deflated his tires, and physically attacked him, leaving visible injuries to his lips and gums.
Ovire, however, defended herself on Instagram Stories, claiming that Arimoro became aggressive first, assaulting her production manager and driver, who she said was left bleeding from the ear, after being asked to film “just two quick scenes.”
CCTV footage that surfaced online on November 13 appears to show Ovire and her crew surrounding Arimoro’s vehicle in a tense exchange with some physical contact, though the low-resolution clip does not conclusively establish who initiated the confrontation. The footage has nevertheless intensified public debate and criticism.
The AGN emphasized that “no actor, under any circumstances, should be subjected to physical assault, intimidation, or any form of abuse in the course of professional engagement,” describing the actions captured in the video as “inhumane and degrading” and contrary to industry standards.
The guild urged filmmakers and actors to resolve disputes professionally, stating, “The Guild strongly advises all practitioners within the motion picture industry to embrace lawful and civil means of conflict resolution rather than resorting to violence or self-help. Disputes arising on set or within production circles must be handled with decorum, respect, and through the appropriate professional channels.”
In addition, AGN announced that its National Task Force has launched a full investigation into the incident and called on the Association of Movie Producers (AMP) to identify the producer involved and implement disciplinary measures in line with their professional code of conduct.
The guild reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the welfare, dignity, and safety of actors while collaborating with sister organizations to uphold professionalism in the Nigerian film industry.
As of now, neither Arimoro nor Ovire has issued a public apology regarding the incident.