Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has apologised to her colleague, Laide Bakare, over her reaction to Bakare’s name during a podcast interview, expressing her desire to end their long-running disagreement.
Badmus issued the apology in an Instagram statement on Tuesday following her appearance on Isbae U’s Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast, where she appeared to react negatively when the host mentioned Bakare as one of his favourite actresses.
“On reflection, I realise my reaction when Laide Bakare’s name was mentioned during my recent interview could have come across as dismissive, and for that, I sincerely apologise,” she wrote.
Addressing Bakare directly, the actress added, “Laide, whatever our differences, I choose peace and I genuinely wish you well.”
Badmus said personal growth involved learning from past experiences and moving beyond disagreements.
“We’re all growing, learning and becoming better versions of ourselves. Sometimes maturity is simply knowing when to let go and move forward,” she stated.
She ended the message with a further appeal for reconciliation, writing, “Jog maa binu. No negativity. No grudges. Let love lead and peace reigns.”
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The apology followed the circulation of a clip from the podcast on social media, showing Badmus hissing and changing her facial expression after Bakare’s name was mentioned.
The incident renewed attention on the strained relationship between the actresses, who have had public disagreements over the years.
In March 2024, Badmus appeared to mock Bakare’s outfit at the latter’s book launch. Bakare wore a white outfit with an orange cape, which attracted criticism on social media.
Badmus subsequently wrote on Instagram, “Ewo ninu yin lo wo Aso Pastor Ajidara. Abeg who??” The remark was widely interpreted as a reference to Bakare’s outfit.
Bakare expressed disappointment, saying some colleagues appeared more interested in criticising her perceived shortcomings than celebrating her achievements. She also questioned why Badmus had singled her out, describing her as a childhood friend from their University of Ibadan days.
Their disagreement resurfaced in April 2025 at the Lagos premiere of Eniola Ajao’s film, Owambe Thieves. Videos circulating online showed a heated exchange between the actresses, with Badmus reportedly saying they were not friends and asking that they not be filmed together.
Badmus’s latest statement signals her willingness to move past the disagreements. However, Bakare’s response to the apology was not included in the statement.
GWG
