Mo Abudu Dismisses Claims Of Cabals Influencing Cinema Slots In Nollywood

OpenLife Nigeria reports that founder and CEO of Ebonylife Group, Mo Abudu, has refuted claims that secretive groups or “cabals” within Nollywood collude with cinema owners to manipulate film screening schedules.

In recent times, some Nigerian filmmakers and cinema-goers have alleged that certain movies are being unfairly sidelined.

Reports have suggested that cinema staff sometimes steer audiences away from their preferred films toward others, or that scheduled movies are replaced with more popular titles.

Speaking on Arise TV, Mo Abudu addressed these concerns, emphasizing that cinema operations are driven by business considerations, not favoritism or insider deals.

“There is no cabal. This is not about sentiment or favouritism; it is about return on investment.

If a film cannot fill seats, it will be replaced no matter who owns it. If I am running air-conditioning, paying staff, and only two or three people are sitting in a 100-seat cinema, that film will lose its slot. It is purely business,” she explained.

Supporting the perspective, actor, director, singer, and philanthropist Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde also affirmed the business-driven nature of cinema operations.

Ultimately, Mo Abudu and Omotola Jalade‑Ekeinde’s statements reinforce that Nollywood’s cinema operations are driven by business realities and professionalism, not favoritism or secret alliances.

Their combined voices call for transparency, accountability, and a focus on quality filmmaking, reminding both industry players and audiences that success in cinema comes from merit, not rumor.