A Nollywood advocacy organization, FILMIC, has responded to Basketmouth’s allegations regarding the misuse of Netflix funds by recipients.
This follows weeks after Basketmouth, the creator of ‘A Ghetto Love Story,’ raised significant alarm in the Nigerian creative sector.
During a television interview, the 46-year-old actor and comedian claimed that many Nigerian producers misappropriate significant parts of the budgets designated for films funded by streaming platforms for their own luxury.
He stated, “With the arrival of streaming platforms, they offered substantial financial support to producers. However, these producers would accept the $1.5 million or whatever amount they receive and invest approximately 10 percent into producing the film. The others? Homes, vehicles, and individual expenditures. “I won’t name names, but they are aware of who they are.”
In response to the allegations, FILMIC issued a statement signed by Charles Novia, Segun Arinze, Emem Ema, Efe Omorogbe, Rogers Ofime, and Evelyn Otaigbe, emphasizing that Basketmouth’s remarks are not only unverified but also could harm the industry’s overall reputation.
As a group of professionals and industry participants, FILMIC feels obligated to respond to this statement. A comprehensive review of the evidence at hand shows no reliable backing for these assertions,” the statement partially states.
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Continuing, FILMIC remarked, “In spite of rumors and speculation, there is no solid evidence to indicate that Netflix has faced major problems with production budget mismanagement in Nigeria.”
Moreover, FILMIC has no knowledge of any official complaints or penalties imposed on Netflix’s contracted production companies in Nigeria. Considering these results, it is crucial to dismiss these claims as baseless and possibly deceptive.
The Nigerian creative sector, especially Nollywood, has achieved remarkable progress lately, gaining recognition and awards both locally and globally.
The overwhelming number of Nollywood producers have shown a dedication to creating high-quality films that highlight the country’s abundant cultural heritage.
As an organization advocating for the industry, FILMIC is committed to supporting the expansion and advancement of Nigeria’s creative sector. Our main aim is to offer strategic guidance and assistance in the creation of a strong and forward-thinking creative industry ecosystem. With a strong membership encompassing different sectors of the Creative Industry, we are dedicated to fostering the positive development of Nigeria’s creative sector.
