Veteran Nollywood actor Jide Kosoko has weighed in on the long-debated issue of sex-for-role in the Nigerian film industry, making it clear that while such propositions may exist, no one is forced into them.
Speaking on The Honest Bunch podcast, Kosoko challenged the narrative of coercion, asserting that actors and actresses always have the power to say no.
“If anybody introduces anything to you, if you’re not interested, say no,” Kosoko stated, emphasizing personal responsibility in such scenarios.
Shedding more light on the matter, he revealed that some aspiring actresses knowingly enter the industry with the intent to use sexual favors as a shortcut to fame. “I know some ladies that equally come into the industry with the determination that, by the time ‘I sleep with this and sleep with that, I will get my name,’” he revealed.
Despite acknowledging the prevalence of these unethical practices, Kosoko was firm in his stance that no one can be forced into compromising situations unless they willingly accept. “If I said I need you to warm my bed so that I can give you a role, and you said no, they cannot force you to do it,” he declared.
Wrapping up his position, the Nollywood legend admitted that such demands are inappropriate, but ultimately, the decision lies in the hands of the individuals involved. His message to aspiring actors? Draw the line, take a stand, and never trade your dignity for roles.
