Veteran Nollywood actor Kola Olaiya has reignited the debate over seniority and respect in Nigeria’s film industry.
Olaiya accused his colleague, Pete Edochie, of failing to honour older entertainers who helped shape the industry before his rise to fame.
Speaking on Oyinmomo TV, the veteran actor pointed to the late theatre icon Hubert Ogunde and other pioneers.
He argued that their contributions should not be overlooked when discussing seniority in Nollywood.
According to Olaiya, Ogunde began his theatre career in 1944 after leaving the police force.
He said the legendary entertainer had produced films and recorded hit songs before Edochie was born.
Olaiya also suggested that Edochie’s claim to seniority might apply within his ethnic group, but not across Nigeria.
He said: “I have known him for long that pride is in his blood. That is why he cannot pay homage to the elders that made him.
“Ogunde had been acting before Pete was born. After that, some people like Oyin Adejobi, Duro Ladipo, Kola Ogunmola, were joining. Where was Pete Edochie then?
“If Pete says in his own tribe, he doesn’t have a boss, I wouldn’t know, but here in the whole of Nigeria, no.”
The comments have added fresh attention to the long-running discussion about respect among veteran actors.
Olaiya’s remarks also highlight the role of early theatre practitioners in building Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
He recalled his time working with Ogunde, whom he described as a father figure and a boss who influenced his life and career.
Meanwhile, fellow veteran actor Yemi Solade reportedly weighed in on the debate.
He maintained that Edochie was his junior based on their respective career timelines.
The discussion has renewed interest in the history of Nigerian cinema and the people who helped establish it.
