It’s Purely Business” — Mo Abudu Finally Addresses Nollywood ‘Cabal’ Claims

According to Ireporter Online, Nigerian media executive and filmmaker, Mo Abudu, has rejected claims that cabals exist within the Nollywood film industry, particularly allegations that some producers collaborate with cinema operators to edge out competing movies from scheduled screening slots.

In recent times, several filmmakers have taken to social media to accuse colleagues of influencing cinema owners to restrict the screening of rival films, even after slots have allegedly been allocated. Some moviegoers have also echoed similar concerns, alleging that cinema staff sometimes redirect them to alternative Nigerian films, claiming their original choice is no longer showing.

Addressing the controversy during a recent interview on ARISE Television, Abudu maintained that cinema operations are driven strictly by commercial considerations, not favoritism or personal relationships. She explained that films with stronger audience turnout naturally receive more screen time, as cinema owners and investors are focused on profitability.

Abudu emphasized that decisions on cinema slots are guided by return on investment, noting that underperforming films are often replaced regardless of ownership. She stressed that running a cinema involves significant operational costs, making it impractical to retain films that fail to attract sufficient viewers, insisting that the process is purely business-oriented.