Nollywood power broker Mo Abudu has come out swinging, vehemently denying explosive claims that a shadowy “cabal” is hijacking cinema screens and deciding which Nigerian films succeed — and which are shut out.
The media mogul and CEO of EbonyLife Group dismissed the allegations as baseless, misleading, and unfair, insisting that cinema scheduling in Nigeria is driven by cold business realities, not back-room deals or industry godfathers.
“There Is No Cabal”
Speaking amid growing outrage from some filmmakers who claim their movies are unfairly sidelined, Abudu made it clear:
“There is no cabal controlling cinema screenings. This is business — not favouritism.”
According to her, cinemas exist to sell tickets and fill seats, and films that attract audiences naturally retain or gain more screening slots, while underperforming movies are reduced or pulled — regardless of who produced them.
Business Over Sentiment
Abudu stressed that cinemas have staff to pay, overheads to cover, and investors to answer to, making it impossible to keep showing films that aren’t bringing in revenue.
“If your film is not selling, it will be replaced. That’s how the cinema business works,” she said, adding that even high-profile producers are not immune.
Industry Tensions Boil Over
The denial comes as frustration simmers within Nollywood, with some filmmakers accusing cinema chains of gatekeeping and favouring films linked to influential players. On social media, the word “cabal” has become a rallying cry for those who feel locked out of theatrical releases.
But Abudu insists the narrative is dangerous and misleading — one that ignores the economic pressures facing cinema operators.
Not Personal — Just Performance
She maintained that audience demand, ticket sales, and performance metrics — not friendships or power blocs — determine what stays on screen.
“There is no conspiracy. If people come to watch your movie, the cinema will keep showing it,” she emphasized.
The Bigger Picture
The debate has reignited conversations about fair access, transparency, and survival in Nollywood’s evolving cinema space, pitting creative expectations against commercial realities.
For Mo Abudu, however, the verdict is final:
No cabal. No secret control. Just business.
