Nollywood is no stranger to public drama, but the ongoing feud between actresses Laide Bakare and Eniola Badmus took a deeply personal turn this week following a now-viral altercation at a public event.
In the aftermath, Laide Bakare has released a fiery video breaking her silence and accusing her longtime colleague of betrayal, provocation, and deep-seated bitterness.
The clash between the two actresses reportedly occurred at the Owambe Thieves movie premiere in Lagos, where both women were in attendance.
Videos from the event captured the tension as Laide appeared visibly upset while Eniola ignored her, prompting widespread speculation online.
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Now, Laide has offered her side of the story and she’s not mincing words.
"I want to first and foremost apologize to everyone who feels disappointed about the reaction in that video. It was like planned to come out like that from Enola's side because she saw clearly that a lot of people, a lot of paparazzi, were there, the camera was facing, and she kept truncating me back to back; she kept coming after me. She was giving me serious body."
According to Laide, the confrontation was no accident; it was calculated. She accused Eniola of intentionally provoking her in front of cameras and social media buzz, alleging a pattern of harassment and psychological games.
"So, guys, I'm really not happy. I'm really not happy doing this. And I have to do this so quickly because I know a lot of my people would not want me to do this. But I have to do this because you can't assassinate my character. Number one, Eniola Badmus, you’re a devil. You are a devil; you are not okay. You are not all right."
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She didn’t hold back in expressing how hurt and blindsided she felt. In the same breath, Laide emphasized that she had ignored several provocations in the past, including direct messages and prior insults.
"I am doing this video to actually explain my side because one, yesterday you were able to do something because you did something to me. You came after me. You gave me a serious body beating. I wasn't looking at you. I wasn't even noticing you because I didn't want to. You notice that I'm not giving you attention. You kept coming to where I was. You came into my dm. You insulted me. I never answered you. Eniola, you’re evil."
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One of the most shocking moments in Laide’s monologue was when she claimed responsibility for Eniola’s rise in Nollywood.
"In my own career spanning over 25 years. This video is for you. I have known you since the year 2000. I didn't just know you. I'm not just knowing you, it's way back. There was a time you even pretended to have admission in University of Ibadan. We were in that school together. We've known each other since teenage years, since, since we've known each other since under 20. Someone like me, I can’t operate where there is hatred."
Laide’s remarks painted a picture of a long, complicated friendship-turned-rivalry, one that she believes has been warped by jealousy, betrayal, and cruelty.
Her accusation that Eniola once faked a university admission adds a startling layer to their history, revealing deep fractures that go far beyond professional competition.
The video has triggered massive reactions online. While some fans sympathise with Laide, others have criticised both actresses for airing personal matters publicly. Meanwhile, Eniola Badmus has yet to respond publicly to the video.
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