Renowned Nollywood filmmaker Kunle Afolayan has strongly debunked viral claims that he owes First Bank five billion naira over his blockbuster Anikulapo project, calling the reports baseless nonsense designed to tarnish his reputation.
In an Instagram reel, the director addressed well-wishers and critics directly, expressing frustration over the damaging publication.
“I try not to do this, but I had to because of the well wishers who are actually worried. This is about the nonsense publication going around saying we’re owing five billion. I wish. If I see a bank that can loan me five billion, I definitely will take it because I’ll use it for the betterment of the country, but the honest truth is there’s nothing of such.”
Afolayan clarified the financial structure of the hit project.
“Anikulapo—even from the film—was a coproduction between us and Netflix and it was a clear, straightforward deal. No money is owed to anyone.”
He also dismissed any litigation with First Bank.
“There’s no litigation or anything between us and First Bank. We’re good friends with the bank and have done collaborations in the past and we’re still doing stuff, but we don’t have any issues.”
The rumors reportedly stemmed from reports claiming the bank had issued a court summons over an alleged unpaid loan taken to fund the 2022 film, with claims that only half was repaid after Netflix’s involvement. Afolayan warned that those behind the false narrative “will be hearing from us.”
The celebrated director, known for pushing Nigerian cinema globally through works like Anikulapo, The Figurine, and Citation, emphasized that tough economic times in Nigeria often fuel such unfounded attacks on successful creatives.
His firm denial has sparked relief among fans and industry watchers, with many applauding his transparency.