Veteran Nollywood actor, Segun Arinze has statecolleague, Emeka Ike have resolved their conflict and are now reconciled.
Arinze recently discussed their conflict, which arose from a leadership dispute within the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) in 2009, in an interview with QEDNG.
The conflict resolved organically, the thespian explained, and they now both laugh about it.
“Emeka Ike is a fine actor,” Arinze added, stressing the value of letting go of grudges. We still discuss those things and laugh about them. His talent as an actor remains unaffected.
“The conflict ended on its own. We weren’t fighting. The position was all that mattered. I quit the job for that reason. In addition, he had other things to do.
Then chance and time intervened. We are also getting older. We get along well, and he is my friend. Whenever he is available, I have invited him to join me for lunch or supper.
“Why do we have adversaries? My current workload is already a stress. Hatred is a burden. Take it easy. How much time do you have left to live? Is it something you wish to bear? For what purpose do I require that hostility?
Segun also commended his coworkers for avoiding typecasting, citing Ramsey Nouah, Richard Mofe-Damijo, and veteran actor Olu Jacobs as examples.
He was impressed by their capacity to develop professionally.
When asked about the competitive nature of the Nollywood industry, Segun dismissed the idea of rivalry among actors.Rather, he emphasized how crucial it is to encourage and celebrate one other’s accomplishments.
“Competition is unnecessary. The birds can fly because the sky is large enough. I truly feel glad for my coworkers when they succeed.
“You can’t play every part, can you? Is it possible to be everywhere at once? I’m pleased for my coworkers when they receive prizes.
“What motivates you to compete? Competition breeds animosity. Like football players on a field, it’s always collaboration,” he remarked.