Veteran Nollywood movie marketer Akeem Olatunji Balogun, popularly known as Olasco Films, has reacted to allegations made against him by actors Wale Akorede (Okunnu) and Austin Emmanuel, describing both men as ungrateful.
Olasco made the remarks while responding to claims raised by the actors during separate interviews concerning past business dealings in the film industry. Eyes Of Lagos reports,
Okunnu had earlier accused the filmmaker of allegedly keeping the proceeds from a movie produced for him about 16 years ago. The comic actor stated that he had not forgiven Olasco over the matter, claiming he did not benefit financially from the project.
However, Olasco denied the allegation, insisting that he supported the actor at a crucial stage in his career. He claimed he paid Okunnu ₦2 million for the production at a time when typical film budgets reportedly ranged between ₦700,000 and ₦1 million.
He compared the situation to someone forgetting assistance received after achieving success, maintaining that claims of unpaid work were inaccurate.
The controversy follows earlier accusations by Austin Emmanuel, who alleged that Olasco Films and his associate, Toymax Films, were responsible for blacklisting him from Nollywood.
Emmanuel, who has been absent from the screen for several years, also alleged that Toymax Films had a personal dispute involving his girlfriend.
Reacting to the claims during an interview with actor Tunde Ola-Yusuf, Olasco dismissed the accusations, suggesting that the actor was attempting to gain attention using his name.
He further stated that he played a role in promoting the project that brought Austin Emmanuel into public recognition.
The exchange has sparked conversations within Nollywood circles, highlighting recurring disputes over contracts, revenue sharing, and professional relationships in the industry.
Observers note that disagreements between marketers, producers, and actors are not uncommon, particularly concerning older film projects where documentation and revenue structures were less formalized.