A recent Funke Akindele robbery update has sent ripples through the Nigerian film industry, with veteran actress Bimbo Thomas recounting a terrifying armed robbery incident that occurred during the filming of the blockbuster “Omo Ghetto Part Two.” Thomas shared her harrowing experience, revealing that the attack, which took place at a hotel housing cast and crew in Ebute Metta, Lagos, nearly claimed lives and appeared to specifically target lead actress and filmmaker Funke Akindele. This incident underscores the significant security challenges faced by Nollywood productions, prompting discussions on how to better protect talent and crew in vulnerable locations. The shocking details emerging from Thomas’s interview paint a grim picture of the threats lurking behind the scenes of even the most successful film ventures.
Bimbo Thomas, renowned for her role as Nikky in the wildly popular “Omo Ghetto” saga, connected the robbery to earlier altercations between local hoodlums and the production team. She explained that the film’s gritty portrayal of street life and gang culture in Ebute Metta frequently attracted unwanted attention and disruption from area boys. Despite her personal familiarity with the neighborhood, Thomas emphasized that this connection offered no shield against the pervasive interference, necessitating increased security measures on set long before the actual attack unfolded. The constant presence of potential threats highlighted a precarious environment for the creative process.
The attack itself occurred late at night, after filming had concluded for the day, with cast members dispersed across various hotels in the vicinity. Thomas initially lodged elsewhere but was invited by Akindele to join her for a customary post-work massage. This seemingly innocuous invitation placed her directly in the path of danger, setting the stage for an unforgettable night of terror. The casual plans for relaxation soon dissolved into a desperate fight for survival, illustrating the unpredictable nature of working in such volatile areas.
What happened during the Omo Ghetto 2 set robbery was a targeted and violent intrusion. Armed men stormed a hotel in Ebute Metta, Lagos, specifically searching for Funke Akindele, believing she was the primary target due to previous altercations with local hoodlums. The robbers ransacked rooms, terrorizing cast and crew, and ultimately forced Akindele to accompany them downstairs, demanding she sing and dance.
The incident escalated shortly before 1:00 am, when loud banging and shouts of “Ole! Ole!” (Thief! Thief!) shattered the night’s peace. Panic immediately gripped those inside the hotel, including Thomas and Akindele. Known for her devout faith, Funke Akindele led the group in prayer as fear permeated the air. The realization that the hotel was under attack, and that Akindele was likely the specific target, prompted desperate attempts to conceal her from the assailants, revealing a profound sense of loyalty and urgency among the crew.
Fearing Akindele’s recognition, Thomas recounted their futile efforts to hide her under a bed before moving her into the bathroom. Akindele, hidden beneath a gown, knelt in terror alongside the masseuse, who prayed fervently in tongues, while Thomas pleaded for divine mercy. This harrowing detail underscores the extreme vulnerability felt by the victims and the instinctive measures taken to protect their colleague. The desperate situation highlights the severe need for improved Nollywood production safety guide protocols, especially when filming in sensitive urban environments.
Though the initial attempts by the attackers to breach their room failed, they soon returned with renewed aggression, forcing their way inside. It became chillingly clear that their primary objective was Funke Akindele, as they repeatedly called out her name. The specific targeting of a prominent figure like Akindele raises serious questions about the security intelligence surrounding film productions and the potential for insider information or reconnaissance by criminal elements.
Eventually, Akindele emerged from her hiding place. Thomas had initially hoped the robbers would merely seize valuables and depart, but their actions took a more sinister turn. They ordered Akindele to dress and then dragged her downstairs to her car, a move that left Thomas utterly baffled and terrified. The situation became even more surreal when Thomas heard Akindele singing “Emi Omo Ghetto,” revealing the attackers were forcing her to perform and dance, a shocking display of power and intimidation.
Thomas later disclosed that while only six armed men had entered the hotel, approximately 20 additional accomplices were strategically positioned outside. This overwhelming numerical superiority rendered the victims completely helpless against the coordinated assault. Emergency calls were made to influential figures, including Oba Saheed Elegushi, who reportedly mobilized assistance. Officers from Panti Police Station eventually arrived, leading to a confrontation that involved gunshots as security forces engaged the attackers, forcing them to flee. This intervention, though critical, came after a prolonged period of terror.
The aftermath was pure chaos: a person was shot, a pastor was rushed to the hospital, and dozens of terrified individuals were left stranded at the reception, confused, scared, and praying for an end to the ordeal. Months later, Thomas learned that several of the attackers had been apprehended, while others were reportedly killed. Her relief was palpable, acknowledging her own impulsiveness in the moment and the potential for a fatal outcome had she directly confronted one of the assailants. Such incidents cast a shadow over even the most anticipated releases, impacting the perception of best Nollywood movies 2026 and beyond, as safety concerns become paramount.
Thomas traced the root of the attack to an earlier incident on set. During filming, some hoodlums who had disrupted the production were arrested and compelled to record apology videos. Despite efforts to appease the local community before commencing filming, this prior incident had deeply offended the criminal elements. This revelation suggests a cycle of retaliation and territorial disputes that can plague film sets operating in areas known for gang activity, highlighting the complex social dynamics at play.
Describing the experience as cruel and heartless, Thomas emphasized the lasting emotional impact it left on everyone involved. She recounted a poignant moment when Akindele later questioned why Thomas hadn’t handed her over to the robbers. Thomas’s response, that if they intended to kill Akindele, they would have killed everyone present, speaks volumes about her loyalty and the shared sense of vulnerability during the ordeal. The bond forged in terror reinforces the camaraderie often found among film crews, even in the face of extreme danger.
This devastating Funke Akindele robbery update serves as a stark reminder of the security challenges within the Nigerian film industry. While the success of films like “Omo Ghetto Part Two” brings global recognition, it also exposes cast and crew to significant risks, particularly in urban environments with existing social tensions. The incident highlights the urgent need for enhanced security protocols, better community engagement strategies, and robust protection measures to ensure the safety of all involved in film production. The industry must learn from such harrowing experiences to safeguard its future. We are grateful to God, truly grateful, for their survival. Ultimately, the resilience of Nollywood shines through, even amidst such dark events.
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