Veteran actor Afeez Oyetoro, popularly known as Saka, has defended filmmaker Funke Akindele against claims that she is overly strict on film sets, describing her as disciplined, caring and professional.
Saka made the remarks in a recent interview while reflecting on his experience working with Akindele on her December film, Behind The Scenes.
Addressing the perception that the award-winning actress and producer is tough to work with, Saka said he had been treated well by Akindele and welcomed her approach to managing productions.
“I have worked with Funke Akindele, and she treated me very well. To those saying she’s strict on set, to be honest, I like it that way. I’m saying this publicly, not to gain anything,” he said.
The actor said managing a multimillion-naira production required firmness and discipline, noting that such projects involved significant financial and organisational responsibilities.
“You have to be strong to handle a multimillion-naira project, and it isn’t easy. She’s humble, caring, and she doesn’t tolerate nonsense,” Saka added.
He also dismissed suggestions that Akindele had a bad temper, saying she was fair to colleagues who carried out their responsibilities properly.
“It’s not that she has a bad temper. Once you do the right thing, she has no problem with you,” he said.
Saka further described Akindele as someone who maintained a clear distinction between work and leisure.
“When it comes to work, Funke doesn’t joke. But when it’s time to entertain, she’s playful. I don’t have anything against her. If you are lazy, you can’t work with her because she doesn’t like laziness,” he added.
Akindele is one of Nollywood’s most commercially successful filmmakers, having featured in and produced several high-grossing films. Her productions often involve large casts and crews, requiring close coordination and strict adherence to schedules.
