Ibinabo's move to mend cracks in Nollywood's house

According to Punch, Actors Guild of Nigeria President, Ibinabo Fiberesima, has initiated moves to heal the malice inherent in the association.

For many years, political dispute has ruled the AGN, leading to factionalisation, bickering and bad blood. These often come to the fore during elections, as was the situation a few months ago when Fiberesima herself contested for the guild's highest political office. 

 But believing that a house divided against itself shall crumble, she has been holding dialogues with individuals and groups. This gesture became symbolic last weekend when a 'historic' meeting was held among several leading lights in the industry.

The event that also marked her birthday attracted to Chesney Hotel, Victoria Island, Lagos, stars that include Genevieve Nnaji, Stephanie Okereke, Monalisa Chinda and Rita Dominic.

Others include Joke Silva, Omotola Jolade-Ekeinde, Chidi Mokeme, Ramsey Noah, Uche Jombo, Ini Edo, Desmond Elliot and Mike Ezuruonye.

At the meeting that was largely devoid of usual excessive razzmatazz, the practitioners stressed the need to focus on how to solve the common enemies of the industry, especially pirates, rather than fighting over political matters.

In her remarks, Fiberesima, who received commendation from her colleagues, thanked them for heeding her call.

She said, "The essence of this meeting is to formally thank you all for the support given to me so far as your elected leader. I can't thank you special people enough, because without your support, advice and prayers, I cannot succeed or achieve the little gains and peace we are enjoying at the guild currently. This historic meeting, which I have started with you people today will be held with all stakeholders in Nollywood, in phases.

"More of these meetings are on the way and we intend visiting our colleagues in the east, north, south and other parts of the country. I want all of us to come together and move AGN forward. Enough of the bickering and internal fighting. We are also tired of washing our dirty linens in public by always allowing outsiders to hear and interfere in our affairs. We need love and peaceful co-existence among ourselves."

To fulfil the birthday rite, artistes that include 2face, Kingsley Kuku, Mannix and Ibru Sisters entertained guests at the event.