A viral video from a recent Nollywood film shoot in Lagos shows veteran actor Femi Branch allegedly slapping the film’s Assistant Director (AD) during a dispute over filming procedures. The conflict reportedly began when the AD questioned why shooting had commenced without proper coordination, after he was scolded for knocking on a door during a scene. According to the AD, Branch insulted him, claiming his “head is incorrect,” and when the AD refused to back down, the actor struck him.
The incident stunned the crew, prompting them to lock the set’s gate in protest, preventing Femi Branch from leaving until he apologized. When production moved to a new location at the Lekki Conservation Centre, the crew once again halted filming and blocked access until Branch offered an apology. Reports indicate that he eventually apologized to the Assistant Director and the rest of the crew, allowing production to continue.
A statement from the film crew confirmed the altercation took place on June 18, 2025, noting that the slap was delivered in full view of witnesses and that the crew unanimously refused to continue filming until an apology was issued.
The event has sparked widespread conversation within the Nollywood industry, raising concerns about on-set professionalism, respect, and the need for stronger accountability—especially when it comes to well-established actors. As of now, Femi Branch has not released a public statement, but there is mounting pressure for official industry action and the possible introduction of stricter behavioral policies on set.
