Veteran Nollywood actor Afeez Oyetoro, popularly known as Saka, has spoken glowingly about working with Funke Akindele, praising her professionalism, care and no-nonsense approach on set.
In comments shared from the Gbagede Osere podcast, the comic actor and lecturer addressed criticisms of the award-winning filmmaker’s strictness.
“I worked with Funke Akindele and she treated me really well. Yes, she’s strict on set, but to be honest, I like it that way,” Saka said.
He made it clear he was not speaking for personal gain.
“I’m not saying this publicly to gain anything. I like Funke a lot because you have to be strong to handle a multimillion-naira project, and it isn’t easy. You can’t be sluggish on her set. She’s very caring and humble, but she doesn’t tolerate nonsense.”
Saka insisted the popular perception of a bad temper is wrong.
“It’s not that she has a bad temper. Once you do the right thing, she won’t have any problems with you.”
He explained that the film industry is collaborative and every role, no matter how small, affects the entire production.
“Anywhere in the world, if you’re working on a project, everyone is supposed to play his/her parts and play it well. This industry is a collaborative industry and if someone doesn’t do even the littlest things that they are assigned, it will affect another person.”
According to the actor, Funke switches easily between focus and playfulness.
“When it comes to work, Funke doesn’t joke. When it’s time to entertain, she’s playful. I’d work is going on and someone is affected, she can leave the set to attend to the person. She takes care of people and that is just how I see her.”
Saka concluded with strong praise:
“I don’t have anything against her. She’s perfect just the way she is. If you are lazy, you can’t work with her because she doesn’t like laziness.”
The comments come at a time when Funke Akindele continues to lead some of Nollywood’s biggest box-office projects. Saka’s endorsement from a respected industry veteran has drawn positive reactions from fans who appreciate the rare public defence of her set culture.