VIDEO: Actor recalls 2023 clash with Peju Ogunmola over fired prop gun scene
Nollywood actor Taofeek Adewale, known as Digboluja, recounted a 2023 incident where veteran actress Peju Ogunmola became furious after he fired a prop gun at her during a movie scene.
Intelligence analysis by Gemini 2.5 Flash
The incident, which recently went viral, stemmed from a miscommunication on set where Ogunmola was reportedly not informed that a prop gun would be used, expecting an object instead. Adewale, following the script and believing the director had briefed her, proceeded with the scene, leading to Ogunmola's visible anger and subsequent public discussion.
Imagine you're playing a game of pretend, and your friend knows you don't like loud noises. The game leader tells your friend it's okay to make a loud noise near you because they've told you about it. But the game leader actually forgot to tell you! So, when your friend makes the loud noise, you get really surprised and upset. That's kind of what happened with two actors in a movie. One actor used a fake gun, thinking the director had told the other actress, who doesn't like guns, that it would happen. But she wasn't told, so she got very angry and surprised on set.
Analysis
The recounted clash between Taofeek Adewale and Peju Ogunmola on a 2023 movie set brings to light the often-unseen challenges and potential miscommunications that can occur during film production, even in established industries like Nollywood. The incident, which gained traction through a viral video, reveals a breakdown in communication regarding the use of a prop gun, leading to a veteran actress's genuine distress. This event serves as a cautionary tale for filmmakers and production teams, emphasizing the necessity of thorough briefings and safety measures, especially when involving sensitive elements like firearms, even if they are props. The public reaction, ranging from praise for Adewale's calmness to accusations against the director, reflects a broader concern for professional conduct and actor welfare within the industry.
Peju Ogunmola
Peju Ogunmola, a respected veteran in the Yoruba Nollywood scene, reacted with palpable anger and surprise when the prop gun was fired at her. Her immediate response, shaking Adewale and exclaiming her dislike for guns, underscores a personal boundary that was evidently crossed. The actress's expectation was that an object would be used, not a firearm, indicating a significant discrepancy between her understanding and the actual execution of the scene. This highlights the vulnerability of actors who rely on clear communication from the production team to perform their roles safely and authentically. Her reaction, though emotional, was framed by some social media users as a testament to her genuine character and professionalism, as she maintained respect towards Adewale despite her anger.
Taofeek Adewale
Taofeek Adewale, known as Digboluja, found himself in an unenviable position, caught between the script's demands and a colleague's unexpected reaction. His account reveals that he had read the script, which mandated the use of a gun, and had even raised concerns with the director about Ogunmola's known aversion to firearms. Believing the director had adequately prepared her, Adewale proceeded as instructed. His calm demeanor during and after the incident, and his subsequent explanation, garnered him praise from online commentators. His willingness to accept potential repercussions, stating he wouldn't have reacted even if slapped multiple times, speaks to a deep respect for his senior colleague and a professional understanding of the on-set hierarchy, despite the personal pain he felt from the misunderstanding.
The Director
The role of the movie director emerges as central to the entire controversy. According to Adewale, the director was aware of Peju Ogunmola's discomfort with guns and had allegedly assured Adewale that Ogunmola had been informed and would be 'prepared' for the scene. However, Ogunmola's reaction strongly suggests otherwise, pointing to a critical failure in the director's communication or preparation. This lapse not only caused distress to an actress but also put another actor in an awkward and potentially damaging situation. The incident underscores the director's ultimate responsibility for ensuring a safe and clear working environment for all cast and crew members, and how a single misstep in communication can lead to significant on-set friction and public scrutiny.
Key points
- Nollywood actor Taofeek Adewale (Digboluja) recalled a 2023 incident with veteran actress Peju Ogunmola on a movie set.
- Ogunmola became furious after Adewale fired a prop gun at her, as she was reportedly not informed about its use.
- Adewale stated he had informed the director about Ogunmola's aversion to guns and was told she had been prepared.
- Ogunmola's reaction indicated she expected an object, not a gun, to be used in the scene.
- The incident sparked online reactions, with some praising Adewale's calmness and others criticizing the director for miscommunication.
This public incident could lead to improved communication protocols and safety briefings on Nollywood sets, ensuring all actors are fully aware of scene details, especially those involving props like guns. It might encourage more thorough pre-production meetings and clearer roles for assistant directors in conveying critical information, ultimately enhancing professional standards and actor safety.
If the underlying issues of miscommunication and lack of clear protocols are not addressed, similar incidents could recur, potentially leading to further on-set conflicts, damaged professional relationships, and a decline in trust among cast and crew. This could negatively impact the efficiency and harmony of future film productions within the industry.
