Three years after her suspension, Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing has publicly apologized to the Theater Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners of Nigeria (TAMPAN) for her previous criticism of the association. TAMPAN, the umbrella body representing Yoruba actors and filmmakers, initially suspended Blessing following a public altercation with actor Lege Maimi over the alleged child abuse case involving actor Baba Ijesha.
In 2021, Blessing and fellow actress Iyabo Ojo campaigned against Baba Ijesha, which drew backlash from TAMPAN members, including Yomi Fabiyi and Lege Maimi. Veteran actor Jide Kosoko reacted by barring directors from working with Ojo and Blessing, a move that led Blessing to mock the association’s decision.
However, during the 2024 Celebrities Entertainment Awards in Canada on Sunday, Blessing offered a tearful apology. In a video shared widely on social media, she stated, “I am so sorry for all that I did. I’m begging from the bottom of my heart… You all made me who I am today. I’m being celebrated all over the world because of you. Please, I’m sorry.”
In response, TAMPAN president Mr. Latin accepted her apology, while actor Odunlade Adekola praised her for her sincerity. This apology marks a step toward reconciliation within the industry.
Baba Ijesha was sentenced to prison in July 2022 by Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo at the Ikeja Special Offences Court, following over a year of legal proceedings.
