A former staff member of award-winning Nollywood makeup artist Hakeem Effect has publicly detailed the end of their romantic relationship, alleging that he refused to let her marry so she could remain available to him while he kept his wife and children. The woman shared her account in a recent interview that quickly gained traction online.
She explained that her cousin introduced her to the special effects specialist because of her strong work ethic. Hakeem invited her to join him on a job in Port Harcourt. After that assignment, the pair continued working together as they travelled to Enugu and Abia, where their professional connection gradually turned personal.
According to her, Hakeem appreciated her dedication and often called her “treasure.” She recalled him saying that her presence always left him satisfied because she worked hard and was never lazy.
The relationship took a sharp turn when she began expressing her desire to settle down and start her own family.
“What caused our fight was when I felt like I wanted to settle down and marry. Hakeem declined that he didn’t want me to settle down,” she stated.
She alleged that he told her she behaved like a man due to her independent and hardworking nature, and therefore did not need a husband.
The former staff member described his stance as selfish. She claimed he wanted her to stay by his side indefinitely while he continued his life with his existing family. When asked directly whether his refusal to support her marriage plans caused their breakup, she confirmed it.
“Yes, because he doesn’t want me to marry and have my own family,” she said.
Hakeem Effect, whose full name is Hakeem Onilogbo, is one of Nollywood’s most recognised special effects and makeup artists. He has collected multiple awards at the Africa Movie Academy Awards and African Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards for his work on major productions. He is married and has previously spoken about the couple’s journey with infertility and eventual parenthood.
The woman’s claims have sparked mixed reactions across social media, with some users criticising the alleged arrangement and others questioning the decision to enter a relationship with a married man. As of the latest reports, Hakeem Effect has not publicly responded to the allegations.