Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has shared his perspective on the ongoing debate surrounding sex-for-roles in the Nigerian film industry. Speaking on the Honest Bunch Podcast, the seasoned actor asserted that while some producers and directors may engage in unethical behavior, many actresses also deliberately enter the industry with the intent of using sexual relationships to advance their careers.
Kosoko dismissed the common belief that actresses are always coerced into compromising situations. He emphasized the importance of personal choice in such scenarios, stating:
“If I said I need you to warm my bed so that I can give you a role, and you said no, they cannot force you to do it. And if you want that role by all means, that means you want to dance to his tone.”
While acknowledging that soliciting sexual favors for roles is morally wrong, he stressed that the responsibility also lies with those who agree to participate. According to him, consenting adults are accountable for their decisions.
“I’m not saying it’s right to have introduced that to you, but if you fall for it, that’s your own business. How does that concern the whole world? All this sex-for-roles thing, forget about it.”
Kosoko further claimed that some women knowingly exploit these situations to gain fame and recognition. He remarked:
“I know some ladies that equally come into the industry with the determination that, by the time ‘I sleep with this and sleep with that, I will get my name.’ I know of some popular actresses. I know of even a Magistrate.”
A Longstanding Industry Debate
The issue of sex-for-roles has remained a contentious subject in Nollywood, with numerous actors and filmmakers offering differing opinions. While some argue that systemic exploitation exists, others like Kosoko believe that personal agency plays a significant role in these dynamics.
Kosoko’s comments have sparked fresh discussions about ethics and power dynamics in Nollywood. Industry stakeholders continue to call for stricter regulations and professional conduct to ensure fair opportunities for all aspiring actors.
As the conversation unfolds, the veteran actor’s remarks underscore the need for both individual responsibility and institutional accountability in the Nigerian film industry.
