Bimbo Ademoye confronted area boys demanding money on a film set on May 1, 2026. The incident, captured in a viral video, highlights the ongoing issue of street extortion faced by creatives in Nigeria.
Ademoye expressed her familiarity with street situations, stating, “Omo Igboro ni mi” (I am a child of the streets). She rejected the demand for payment, insisting no one has the right to impose payments on her. “Ko si iyalaya anybody to sise owo si mi lowo,” she declared.
The confrontation escalated when one of the area boys threatened to switch off her camera. Ademoye responded sharply, saying, “Camera that nobody in your generation has.” This exchange underscores the challenges filmmakers encounter while working in areas affected by local youths engaged in extortion.
Despite her strong stance against such demands, Ademoye indicated her willingness to support local youths financially but only on her own terms. She has previously addressed claims that her emotional displays are merely marketing strategies for her films.
This incident reflects broader issues within Nollywood and its struggle with street extortion. Many creatives face similar threats while trying to produce films in various locations across Nigeria. The pressure from area boys complicates an already challenging environment for filmmakers.