Eniola Badmus moves to end rift with Laide Bakare after backlash

Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has apologised to her colleague, Laide Bakare, following widespread criticism of her reaction after Bakare’s name was mentioned during a recent podcast appearance.

Badmus expressed her desire to settle their differences and move forward, according to a statement she shared on her Instagram page on Tuesday.

The apology came days after a video from her appearance on Isbae U’s Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast went viral on social media.

During the interview, the host mentioned Bakare as one of his favourite actresses. Badmus responded by hissing and changing her facial expression, a moment that quickly attracted attention online.

Her reaction sparked criticism from social media users and renewed conversations about the reported strained relationship between the two actresses.

Reflecting on her reaction via her Instagram page, Badmus admitted that it could have been perceived as dismissive and expressed regret over how it came across.

“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.

Addressing Bakare directly, the actress added, “Laide, whatever our differences, I choose peace and I genuinely wish you well.”

Badmus said maturity involves learning from past experiences and choosing to move forward rather than holding on to 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 stated.

She concluded her message with a plea for peace, writing, “Joo maa binu. No negativity. No grudges. Let love lead and peace reigns.”

The apology comes amid a history of public disagreements between the actresses, whose relationship has been marked by exchanges on social media and confrontations at public events.

In March 2024, Badmus appeared to mock Bakare’s outfit at the latter’s book launch. Bakare had attended the event in a white outfit with an orange cape, which generated mixed reactions online.

Badmus subsequently took to Instagram and wrote, “Ewo ninu yin lo wo Aso Pastor Ajidara. Abeg who??” The remark was widely interpreted as a dig at Bakare’s outfit.

Bakare expressed disappointment over the incident, questioning why a colleague she regarded as a childhood friend from their University of Ibadan days would publicly criticise her instead of celebrating her achievement.

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