Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has publicly apologised to colleague Laide Bakare following a viral podcast moment that reignited their long-running feud.
The incident occurred during Badmus’s appearance on Isbae U’s Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast, where Isbae U named Bakare as one of his favourite actresses. Badmus was visibly unimpressed, hissing and changing her facial expression at the mention of the name. The clip spread quickly online and threw their unresolved history back into the spotlight. Laide Bakare has launched a torrent of attacks since then, calling Badmus an ingrate.
Read “I Helped Eniola Badmus When She Was Ugly, Fat!” — Laide Bakare
In a personal statement on Instagram on Tuesday, Badmus owned the moment.
“On reflection, I realise my reaction when Laide Bakare’s name was mentioned during my recent interview could have come across as dismissive, and for that, I sincerely apologise,” she wrote.
She then addressed Bakare directly.
“Laide, whatever our differences, I choose peace and I genuinely wish you well.”
Badmus framed the apology around personal growth.
“We’re all growing, learning and becoming better versions of ourselves. Sometimes maturity is simply knowing when to let go and move forward.”
She closed with a plea:
“Please, do not be angry. No negativity. No grudges. Let love lead and peace reigns.”
The two actresses have had a turbulent relationship for years. In March 2024, Badmus drew backlash after posting what many interpreted as a swipe at Bakare’s outfit during her book launch. Bakare responded by expressing disappointment that a childhood friend from their University of Ibadan days had chosen to mock rather than celebrate her. The tension boiled over again in April 2025 at the premiere of Owambe Thieves, where the pair were reportedly filmed in a heated exchange, with Badmus declaring they were not friends.
Whether Bakare accepts the olive branch remains to be seen.