Nigerian comedian and actor, Ijoba Lande, has sparked a wave of online conversation after recounting his experience working with celebrated actress and filmmaker, Funke Akindele.


During a candid live session on social media, the skitmaker revealed that he was paid just ₦90,000 for an entire month of work on one of Akindele’s projects. He used the moment to advise aspiring creatives in the entertainment industry to understand their value, confidently charge for their services, and avoid idolizing public figures.


Lande disclosed that he had to stay at Funke Akindele’s Amen Estate residence throughout the production period—despite being married and based in Ayobo at the time. According to him, the low pay and the entire experience left a lasting impression.


“That Funke Akindele… I worked for her for one full month at Amen Estate. I was married and living in Ayobo then. Whenever we weren’t too busy, I’d quickly dash home,” he said. “After all that work, she didn’t even pay me ₦150,000. I swear to God. For you upcoming acts, if you’ve gained some fame, don’t see anyone as a god.”


Lande explained that the opportunity came after Akindele reached out via direct message, impressed by one of his skits. Excited about what he believed could be a breakthrough, he accepted the offer without negotiating payment.


However, upon arrival, he met a producer named Wendy, who handed him a contract stating he’d be paid ₦90,000 monthly. He signed it, assuming it was a routine formality. “I thought it was just paperwork… but I actually got paid only ₦90,000,” he said.


Lande also lamented that throughout his stay, he never got the chance to take a photo with Akindele, describing her as unapproachable. “I hate begging people for pictures. Even if Wizkid or Davido walks in, I’ll just greet them. I’m not photogenic,” he added.


The comedian stressed that, looking back, he would never accept such terms again. “If it were today, even if Michael Jackson came back to life and wanted to use me, I’d give him a fixed rate. If he really wants me, he’ll pay.”


His comments have stirred mixed reactions online, with many users debating whether his grievances were valid or exaggerated.



See a few reactions below:


@Phizys_empirehairs: “That was probably 8 years ago. 90k wasn’t bad back then, especially with free feeding and accommodation.”


@Nanc_y6803: “How about the feeding? You think it’s easy to feed someone for a whole month?”


@Bambulucutie: “Let this man speak. Fans should stop shutting people down.”


@Teyazeal: “You’re talking too much now. Which movie was that? I don’t recall seeing you in any of Funke’s films.”


@Iamtherealallegedly: “It’s true. Top celebrities often underpay upcoming actors because they believe they’re giving you exposure.”


@Realolathomas: “Lande needs to chill with these callouts. Maybe consider therapy. It’s getting too much.”


@Hype_frosh_jago: “If you don’t understand the film industry, don’t comment. 90k isn’t worth a month of work.”


@Guineafowlamerica: “People won’t say the truth. Their faves can do no wrong in their eyes.”


The conversation has reignited debate over fair compensation, respect, and transparency in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.