Nollywood actress Funke Akindele has issued a strong warning to pirates ahead of the release of her upcoming movie, Everybody Loves Jenifa.
In a video posted on her Instagram page, Akindele warned against anyone attempting to record or distribute her film illegally. The movie is set to hit cinemas on Friday, December 13, and she urged fans not to use their phones or recording devices while watching.
“I’m fine, don’t be scared,” she said in the video. “If you go to see my new movie and pull out your phone to record, that won’t be acceptable.”
Akindele acknowledged her fans’ love and support but emphasized that filming the movie undermines those efforts. “I know you support me, I know you respect me, but recording the movie isn’t supporting me,” she added.
She encouraged fans to show their support by visiting the cinemas, taking pictures at promotional stands, and sharing trailers and teasers instead of recording. “Uploading the film on social media isn’t support. If you truly want to support me, go to the cinemas, take pictures, share the trailers, and I’ll be grateful,” she explained.
Akindele stressed the importance of fighting piracy, which she believes threatens the entire Nollywood industry. “We can’t encourage piracy. We’re taking serious security measures to ensure anyone caught recording or distributing the film illegally will be arrested,” she warned.
“I love my fans, but please, don’t get caught doing this. It’s hurting us and the brand. We invested a lot into this project, and we need to grow beyond this,” she concluded.
