According to a report by The Punch, nollywood actress Bukky Fagbuyi has broken her silence on the difficult path she navigated in the Nigerian film industry, sharing her personal story that highlights some of the troubling experiences many actresses face while trying to build a career.
During a candid appearance on Biola Bayo’s television show, as highlighted by Per Second News and reported by Punch, Fagbuyi didn’t hold back as she opened up about the emotional toll and struggles she endured behind the scenes.
While recounting her journey to stardom, she revealed that her rise in the industry was overshadowed by a disturbing culture of sexual harassment and manipulation—issues that continue to haunt many in Nollywood today.
Fagbuyi described the Nigerian film industry as a space brimming with talent and innovation, but one that is sadly riddled with inappropriate conduct and abuse of authority.
Her story reflects a wider issue affecting women in the entertainment industry, especially newcomers trying to establish themselves in a challenging and often exploitative environment.
She also shed light on societal and industry pressure placed on women to pursue relationships and marriage, often at the expense of their emotional well-being and personal freedom.
While recognizing that marriage has its place, Fagbuyi discouraged women from being pushed into it by fear or societal pressure.
“Marriage is a beautiful institution,” she emphasized.
“You must not search. Wait and pray.”
She used her platform to advise women to protect their mental peace rather than succumb to imposed timelines or expectations.
As the interview progressed, Fagbuyi opened up further on the darker experiences she encountered, including direct cases of sexual harassment.
She disclosed how individuals within Nollywood attempted to use their influence to manipulate her career in exchange for personal favors.
“Not one, not two people told me that if they didn’t have their way with me or date me, I would go nowhere,” she said, pointing to the alarming degree of coercion women often face in the industry.
Despite these disheartening experiences, Fagbuyi made it clear that she refused to sacrifice her morals or self-worth in exchange for fame or opportunity.
Her ability to stand firm in the face of adversity reflects both courage and self-respect, sending a strong message to others facing similar challenges.
Her testimony aligns with a growing trend in Nollywood, where more actresses are stepping forward to call out longstanding abuses and unethical behavior that have been overlooked for years.
By voicing her experiences publicly, Fagbuyi has contributed to a much-needed conversation around exploitation in the creative industry and has inspired others to resist silence and demand change.