Actress Nkechi Blessing apologies to TAMPAN amid suspension
Nollywood actress Nkechi Blessing has publicly apologized to the Theater Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners of Nigeria (TAMPAN) for her past criticisms.
TAMPAN serves as the umbrella organization for Yoruba actors and filmmakers in Nigeria.
This apology was issued three years following her suspension following an online dispute with actor Lege Maimi over allegations of child abuse in the case of Baba Ijesha.
Blessing, along with her colleague Iyabo Ojo, launched a campaign against Baba Ijesha, which led to backlash from some TAMPAN members, including Yomi Fabiyi and Lege Maimi.
In response to the public outcry, veteran actor Jide Kosoko banned directors from working with Ojo and Blessing, which led to Blessing mocking the association’s decision.
However, at the 2024 Celebrities Entertainment Awards in Canada, Nkechi Blessing publicly apologized to TAMPAN, expressing her remorse with tears.
In a viral video on social media, she said, “I am so sorry for all that I did. I’m begging from the bottom of my heart that I miss the industry. 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’s president, Mr. Latin, acknowledged her apology, bringing a sense of resolution to the situation. Actor Odunlade Adekola also praised her for her public apology.
Baba Ijesha was sentenced to prison by Justice Oluwatoyin Taiwo of Ikeja Special Offences Court in July 2022, after a trial that lasted over 12 months.