Nollywood actress Jemima Osunde has recounted a harrowing experience that has left her battling a life-threatening illness for the past three years. The actress revealed that she developed gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) after contracting Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) from food served on a movie set in Ibadan, Oyo State.

Taking to her X (formerly Twitter) handle, Osunde expressed deep regret over taking the job, stating, “I’ve never regretted anything the way I regret taking that job and going with them to Ibadan to shoot under their care. Got H. pylori from set food and the aftermath GERD has left me fighting for my life the last 3 years. The past month has really been something.”

A Disturbing Pattern in Nollywood

Osunde’s revelation triggered an outpouring of similar experiences from others in the industry, notably her colleague Omowunmi Dada, who shared her near-death experience while on a film project in Oyo State.

Dada narrated how she contracted sepsis, was abandoned in a hotel, and had to rely on her family and management to get her to a hospital in Ibadan, where she arrived unconscious. She recalled, “It was sepsis, and I was lucky to be alive. Funny thing, production asked for a full refund.”

Osunde responded to Dada’s post, noting the striking similarity in their experiences. She revealed that after her ordeal, the production team demanded a refund rather than checking on her recovery.

The Industry’s Neglect of Welfare

These accounts highlight a concerning lack of prioritization for actors’ health and welfare in the Nigerian film industry. Production teams are often criticized for prioritizing budgets and deadlines over the safety and well-being of their cast and crew.

Osunde’s and Dada’s stories expose the glaring inadequacies in how health emergencies are managed during film projects. From serving substandard meals to failing to provide adequate medical support, these practices not only endanger lives but also reflect poorly on the industry’s professionalism.

Opinion: Time for Change in Nollywood’s Working Conditions

The Nigerian film industry, often celebrated for its creativity and growth, must address the recurring issue of poor working conditions. Ensuring the safety and welfare of actors and crew members is not just a moral obligation but also a necessity for the industry’s sustainability and global reputation.

Producers and directors must take proactive measures, such as hiring caterers who adhere to strict hygiene standards and providing access to medical support on set. Contracts should also include provisions that prioritize the health and safety of the cast and crew.

It is commendable that actors like Jemima Osunde and Omowunmi Dada are using their platforms to shed light on these issues. Their stories serve as a wake-up call for the industry to adopt better practices, ensuring that creativity does not come at the cost of human lives.

As fans, stakeholders, and supporters of Nollywood, it is essential to demand accountability and support those advocating for safer and healthier working environments. These changes will not only safeguard lives but also foster a more ethical and thriving film industry.