Nollywood actress and producer Debbie Shokoya has publicly called out colleagues she accused of spreading false information about her to producers, saying she is being sabotaged for refusing to accept disrespectful treatment.
In a lengthy Instagram post, the actress expressed frustration over claims allegedly being made behind her back that she is unavailable for acting jobs because she recently gave birth and is still nursing.
She dismissed the narrative, insisting motherhood has never slowed her down professionally.
“Till Today… Some PMs/Coordinators still lie to producers that I am unavailable because I gave birth and am still nursing. How nah??? My kid has never been an issue! I have been an active producer even right from 5 months after childbirth!”
Debbie questioned why she is being targeted, suggesting it may be because she insists on being treated with respect during professional dealings.
“So why sabotaging me because I refused to be treated anyhow?”
The actress, who also works as a producer, said she prides herself on maintaining a respectful work environment and expects the same in return.
“I am a producer! I treat everyone with respect on my set… No matter the amount I’m offering to pay, I have to back it up with a good approach!”
She criticised industry figures who approach actors with what she described as condescending attitudes during negotiations.
“Some of these people come and approach you like you don’t have a choice but to jump at jobs that comes with insult…”
Debbie stressed that professionalism and respect matter more to her than the size of a paycheck.
“I am one person who doesn’t mind the money if it’s a good production, but the approach matters a lot to me! You can pay me hugely and still not value me.”
She urged colleagues to reflect on their own behaviour before labelling actors as difficult.
“Before you call someone rude or arrogant, how was your approach? Don’t approach people and sound like they are nothing and they don’t have a choice…”
Addressing producers directly, Debbie appealed to them to contact her personally rather than relying on third-party information.
“Producers… Please reach out yourself… I will be paid, I am considerate, but I know what I will bring to the table.”
She also denied allegations that she is difficult on set or overpriced.
“Enough of the lies of ‘She’s not available, she will give you problems on set, she is arrogant, her charge is high.’”
Her post adds to ongoing conversations about professionalism, respect, and fair representation within Nollywood’s production space.
Debbie Shokoya had previously spoken out about the quality of some Yoruba-language films on YouTube, urging filmmakers to raise standards and help reshape perceptions about the genre.