Eniola Badmus Extends Olive Branch to Laide Bakare After Viral Podcast Moment

Nollywood star Eniola Badmus has reached out to fellow actress Laide Bakare with an apology following the controversy surrounding her reaction when Bakare’s name came up during a recent podcast interview.

In a statement shared on Instagram on Tuesday, Badmus expressed regret over her conduct and called for peace, days after a video from her appearance on Isbae U’s Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast circulated widely online.

The controversy began when the podcast host mentioned Bakare as one of his favourite actresses. Badmus responded with a hiss and a noticeable change in facial expression, triggering online criticism and renewed speculation about the relationship between the two colleagues.

Responding to the backlash, Badmus admitted that her reaction could have been interpreted as disrespectful and offered an apology for how the moment appeared to viewers.

“On reflection, I realise my reaction when Laide Bakare’s name was mentioned during my recent interview could have come across as dismissive, and for that, I sincerely apologise,” she wrote.

She also sent a direct message to Bakare, making it clear that she was willing to move beyond their differences.

“Laide, whatever our differences, I choose peace and I genuinely wish you well,” Badmus stated.

The actress went on to reflect on the importance of maturity, personal development and letting go of past disagreements.

“We’re all growing, learning and becoming better versions of ourselves. Sometimes maturity is simply knowing when to let go and move forward,” she said.

In concluding her statement, Badmus appealed for an end to hostility and encouraged a more peaceful relationship, writing, “Joo maa binu. No negativity. No grudges. Let love lead and peace reigns.”

The latest development follows a series of public disagreements between the actresses, including incidents that have played out on social media and at public events.

One notable episode occurred in March 2024, when Bakare attended her book launch in a white outfit featuring an orange cape. The outfit attracted mixed reactions, after which Badmus made a comment on Instagram that was widely viewed as a mockery of her colleague’s fashion choice.

“Ewo ninu yin lo wo Aso Pastor Ajidara. Abeg who??” Badmus wrote.

Bakare reacted with disappointment, questioning why Badmus, whom she regarded as a childhood friend from their University of Ibadan days, would publicly ridicule her rather than celebrate her accomplishment.

Badmus’s latest apology signals a desire to move past the tension, although it remains unclear whether the statement will lead to a full reconciliation between the two actresses.

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