Published by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
Lagos, Nigeria — Nollywood actress Damilola Oni has spoken openly about the darker aspects of fame, revealing the persistent online harassment she faces from male fans and professional obstacles within the Nigerian film industry. In a candid interview on Oyinmomo TV, Oni detailed her experiences of receiving explicit messages and images from followers, as well as setbacks caused by senior colleagues on set, highlighting the personal and professional pressures of life in the spotlight.
Oni explained that her social media inboxes are frequently filled with unsolicited sexual content from men who claim they have been aroused by watching her performances, sometimes describing acts of masturbation while viewing her films. She described these interactions as unwanted, disrespectful, and emotionally taxing, underscoring the challenges women face in maintaining personal boundaries online.
“Early in the morning when I open my Instagram, men will send me their private parts, saying I am everything you need,” Oni said. “Some will even say they watched me on TV this morning and they used me to satisfy themselves.” She stressed that her single status does not invite such advances and that her professionalism and personal life remain separate from fan attention.
Beyond online harassment, Oni recounted a career setback in which a senior actor on a film she was cast in refused to share the project with her. The producer, caught between the two, reassigned her from a lead role to a supporting part. The experience was disheartening, but Oni chose to remain on set rather than step away, stating that yielding to intimidation would have undermined her career. “I was pained, but I felt that if I left, it would be letting someone else’s bias crush me,” she said.
The actress also criticised the industry’s emphasis on visibility and hype over talent, noting that those who generate more publicity often rise faster than actors with genuine skill. This, she explained, reflects a broader challenge in Nollywood where the balance between artistry and marketability can determine career trajectories.
Oni’s openness about online harassment and professional obstacles highlights the pressures faced by public figures in the digital age. Social media, while providing a platform for connection and visibility, also exposes performers to invasive and inappropriate behaviour that can affect their emotional well-being.
Despite these challenges, Oni remains committed to her craft and determined to succeed in the industry. She emphasized resilience, professional perseverance, and the importance of maintaining personal dignity in the face of adversity. Her story has sparked wider conversations about online safety, respect for women in entertainment, and the structural challenges within Nollywood that actors must navigate to thrive professionally.
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