Nollywood actress and entrepreneur Iyabo Ojo has stirred conversations online after sharing a cryptic message on her Instagram page, a move widely interpreted as a reaction to the ongoing controversies within Nigeria’s film industry.
On Friday, the actress posted an image of a billboard carrying the inscription, “Jealousy is the last class to attend before becoming a witch,” alongside a caption that appeared to dismiss critics and naysayers. While Ojo did not reference any individual or specific incident, the message struck a defiant tone and emphasized self-determination and focus.
“Who made the rules? Nobody you gotta answer to. 2026 ain’t for talkers — it’s for doers. Do what works for YOU. Let others win their way. You win yours. Period,” she wrote.
The post has been widely interpreted as a subtle response to the wave of debates and disagreements currently rippling through Nollywood. Rather than engaging directly, Ojo’s message suggests a resolve to concentrate on her personal goals and methods, while allowing others the freedom to pursue success on their own terms.
Known for her outspoken personality, Iyabo Ojo has previously been involved in several high-profile disputes with colleagues, often airing her opinions unapologetically on social media. Her latest post reinforces that reputation, even as it stops short of addressing any controversy directly.
The timing of the message coincides with heightened discussions within the industry about creativity, relevance, and the pressures placed on filmmakers and actors in the age of social media. Recently, filmmaker Kunle Afolayan sparked debate after criticizing the growing expectation for filmmakers to dance, create skits, and maintain constant online visibility as part of movie promotion.
His remarks prompted a response from actress and producer Funke Akindele, who encouraged creatives to focus on innovation rather than criticism. “If you can’t beat them or join them, create your own path. No allow jealousy burn you. The sky is so big for everybody to fly,” she said.
Veteran actress Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde also weighed in, noting that while she does not oppose dancing or participating in promotional trends for fun, she would resist doing so if it feels forced or obligatory.
Against this backdrop of differing opinions and creative tensions, Iyabo Ojo’s cryptic post appears to echo a broader message gaining traction within Nollywood: success is not one-size-fits-all, and each creative must find—and defend—their own path.