John Okoro
Media mogul Mo Abudu has refuted rumors of an exclusive “cabal” influencing Nigeria’s film industry, countering claims that top producers manipulate theater schedules to suppress rival movies.
Over the years, several Nigerian directors have publicly accused their peers of backdoor dealings with cinema chains, alleging last-minute cancellations of scheduled screenings despite contractual agreements.
Moviegoers have also reported suspicious incidents where theater staff actively discourage them from viewing certain Nollywood releases, pushing alternative Nigerian films while claiming their original choice was “unavailable.”
In a recent ARISE Television interview, the EbonyLife TV CEO dismissed these conspiracy theories, asserting that box office performance alone dictates screening priorities in Nigeria’s competitive cinema market.
The entertainment entrepreneur emphasized that theater operators prioritize revenue over personal connections, explaining that low-performing films inevitably lose prime slots regardless of their producers’ industry stature.
She stated, “The notion of some shadowy cabal is fantasy—this industry operates on cold, hard economics. Theater investors demand returns, not favors.”
“When occupancy rates plummet below viability, any film—including mine—faces replacement.
“No businessman will keep screening a movie for empty seats when operational costs keep accumulating,” Abudu concluded, stressing the financial realities governing exhibition decisions.
David Ochayi
