Yoruba actress and filmmaker Kemi Afolabi recently shared a candid account of her changing relationships with other women in the Nollywood industry, especially in light of her ongoing battle with lupus. Speaking with actor Kunle Afod on his talk show, Afolabi opened up about how her friendships and connections with colleagues in the industry have evolved over the years, particularly since her health began to decline a few years ago.
Afod, known for his direct interviewing style, asked Afolabi how her health struggles had impacted her personal and professional relationships with other actresses. Afolabi, who has been battling lupus since being diagnosed several years ago, responded honestly. “Some of the friendships that once felt strong have weakened, especially since I started dealing with lupus,” she admitted. Her words reflected the emotional toll that both the disease and the pressures of the industry have had on her personal life.
The actress went on to acknowledge that while she had once considered some of her Nollywood colleagues close friends, many of those relationships had faded. One of the friendships she specifically mentioned was with Sikiratu Sindodo, a fellow actress. “Sikiratu and I were once very close, but with time and everything I’ve been going through, we don’t connect as regularly anymore,” Afolabi shared. However, she emphasized that despite the distance, they still communicated occasionally, showing that while the frequency of the relationship had diminished, some form of connection remained.
As the conversation deepened, Afod pressed Afolabi about whether she had ever been close to other prominent Nollywood actresses such as Iyabo Ojo, Laide Bakare, and Omoborty. Afolabi’s response was firm and straightforward. “I was never close friends with any of them,” she stated. This revelation surprised some fans, as these actresses are often associated with the more established circles within Nollywood, but Afolabi made it clear that her personal relationships within the industry were more limited.
The discussion took a more positive turn when Afod asked Afolabi if there were any actresses who had stood by her during her health battles. Afolabi’s expression softened as she mentioned one actress in particular—Mercy Aigbe. “Mercy Aigbe has been an absolute pillar of support for me,” she said, her voice filled with emotion. The actress went on to describe how Aigbe’s friendship had not only endured the test of time but had grown stronger despite the challenges Afolabi faced with her illness.
Afolabi spoke warmly about the deep bond she shares with Aigbe, noting that their relationship transcended the usual dynamics of the industry. “Mercy has been there for me in ways that I will never forget. She has always checked on me, offered her support, and even made sure I had people around me when I needed them the most,” Afolabi explained. Her admiration for Aigbe was evident, as she credited the actress with helping her maintain her emotional well-being during difficult times.
The actress reflected on how friendships in the entertainment industry can sometimes be fleeting, especially when personal challenges, like health issues, come into play. “It’s easy to feel isolated when you’re not as visible or physically present, but Mercy has always shown that true friendship is about more than just being there when it’s convenient,” Afolabi said. This sentiment was particularly poignant as she contrasted Aigbe’s unwavering support with the more transient nature of some of her other relationships.
