Filmmaker Funke Akindele has raised concerns over the rising rate of piracy, urging the public not to record or share videos of her upcoming movie Everybody Loves Jenifa.
In an Instagram post on Wednesday, the 47-year-old star appealed to her fans to resist the temptation of filming scenes, describing the act as piracy that is damaging the entertainment industry.
“Do not be scared. I am fine. But if you go to see my new movie Everybody Loves Jenifa and bring out your phone or any device to film it, then I will not be fine,” she said.
Funke, who emphasised the effort and resources invested in the project, stressed that piracy threatens the livelihoods of filmmakers and actors.
She encouraged her fans to support her instead by taking pictures at the standees, sharing trailers and teasers on social media, and urging others to watch the film.
“Take pictures at the standees, post the trailers, share the teasers, and encourage others to watch in cinemas. Don’t record the film or upload it online. That’s piracy, and it’s killing us,” she added.
The Jenifa star also warned that security measures would be in place to apprehend anyone caught engaging in piracy, stressing that the act negatively affects the growth of the industry.
Everybody Loves Jenifa, the latest installment in the popular Jenifa franchise that began in 2008, boasts a star-studded cast including Layi Wasabi, Nancy Isime, Jackie Appiah, Falz, Omowunmi Dada, Chimezie Imo, Patience Ozokwor, and Stan Nze.
The highly anticipated film will premiere in Nigerian cinemas on December 13 before screening in 30 countries across six continents from December 20 to January 17.
