Actress Kemi Afolabi has spoken out in defense of her colleague and close friend, Mercy Aigbe, following allegations that Aigbe staged a fire at her Lagos home as a publicity stunt for her upcoming movie, Thinline. The film is set to premiere nationwide on December 13, 2024. Afolabi, visibly emotional, called for an end to the online trolling of Aigbe during a difficult time.
The controversy erupted after a report by Gistmania claimed that Aigbe’s Lagos home had been destroyed in a fire, with millions of naira worth of property damaged. Aigbe herself shared a video on social media showing the devastating aftermath of the fire. While some followers sympathized with her, others accused the actress of fabricating the tragedy to drum up publicity for Thinline, her much-anticipated movie.
“Some people are saying it’s a publicity stunt. How can anyone do that to themselves just to promote a movie?” Afolabi questioned during a heartfelt plea to stop the online harassment. She expressed disbelief at how some people could so quickly dismiss the incident as a fabrication. Aigbe’s supporters have refuted the allegations, calling the accusations hurtful and baseless.
The fire incident is not the first tragedy Aigbe’s family has faced. In October 2022, Aigbe’s mother’s home was reportedly set on fire amid ongoing family conflicts. The fire was allegedly linked to accusations of witchcraft and unresolved financial disputes within the family. This incident also sparked a wave of public scrutiny and harsh comments directed at the actress.
In addition to the fire, Aigbe has endured several personal challenges, including a traumatic car accident in 2023 while traveling on the Lagos-Benin road. Despite her car’s tyres being damaged in the accident, Aigbe survived the ordeal. She later described the experience as the scariest moment of her life and thanked God for her safety. Aigbe also encouraged fans to support her movie, Omo Daddy, which was released in cinemas shortly afterward.
Afolabi, who is known for her strong bond with Aigbe, took to social media to ask Nigerians to refrain from further trolling the actress. Speaking tearfully, she appealed for compassion and understanding, emphasizing that Aigbe needed support, not criticism. “Please, guys, do you have any support you can give her now? Can you stop trolling her, please?” Afolabi pleaded.
The 46-year-old actress also highlighted the emotional toll the fire incident had on Aigbe. “I cannot believe people are still trolling her. This is unfair. All she needs is your support. Forget whatever you guys might have against her,” she said, urging the public to focus on offering help rather than tearing the actress down during such a devastating time.
