AGN makes u-turn, lifts actress Halima Abubakar’s suspension

The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has lifted the indefinite suspension earlier placed on actress Halima Abubakar over allegations of defamation against some of her colleagues and other prominent Nigerians.

The suspension, which took effect in October 2024, followed complaints accusing the actress of making defamatory statements. The guild said it set up a panel to investigate the allegations.

According to the AGN, findings from a two-year investigation showed that Abubakar was culpable, leading to her suspension from all guild activities and a ban from participating in film projects during the period.

The News Agency of Nigeria reports that the outgoing national president of the guild, Emeka Rollas, announced the lifting of the suspension during the inauguration ceremony of the new National Executive Council of the AGN.

The event brought together actors from different states, as well as filmmakers and other stakeholders in the entertainment sector, at the AGN national secretariat on Thursday in Abuja.

Rollas, whose second and final tenure ended in December 2025, handed over to Abubakar Yakubu as the new national president of the guild.

According to Rollas, the guild’s leadership has decided to use the occasion to announce the lifting of Halima’s suspension and that of other erring members to enable them to return to the association.

“There were persons that we have suspended according to the AGN law, and because I’m leaving office, I don’t want to leave them suspended.

“Halima Abubakar took AGN to court claiming a frivolous amount of money, but we had our investigations, and we suspended her from all acting and all AGN activities.

“However, since acting remains her main source of livelihood, it would be wicked for us to leave her like that.

“Therefore today, by the powers imposed on me by the Board of Trustees and the entire Actors Guild of Nigeria, I hereby lift Halima Abubakar’s suspension,” he said.

Rollas also announced the lifting of the suspension of Christopher Igboji, Chidi Concord, Dan Ewerem and Jeff Okwute, who are members of the Enugu State chapter of the guild.

Earlier in his welcome address, Chuks Chyke, Chairman of the Organising Committee of the inauguration, lauded the outgoing president for his courage and inclusive leadership style that has stabilised the guild.

According to him, “Your achievement will remain part of the legacy upon which we continue to build.”

While congratulating the new president and his team, Chyke urged them to see their election as a sacred trust and provide inclusive and visionary leadership.

“Today marks a historical moment in the life of the Actors Guild of Nigeria as we witness the peaceful transition of leadership and the inauguration of a new president and National Executive Council.

“This occasion reflects the strength of our institution, the maturity of our processes, and the unity of our creative family.

“I sincerely commend the immediate past president and executives for their service, sacrifice and dedication; your tenure strengthened the foundation of the guild, expanded our professional relevance and upheld the dignity of the Nigerian actor.”

The chairman urged members of the guild across the country to support and cooperate with the new president and his team to build a stronger, united and globally respected guild. (NAN)

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