Queen Blessing Ebigieson, recently made headlines with her powerful statement comparing the EFCC scrutiny faced by filmmakers to the leniency enjoyed by farmers.
She said, “The EFCC doesn’t ask farmers how they get money for fertilizers, it should be like that too for filmmakers.” This sentiment reflects a growing frustration within the Nigerian film industry regarding the financial challenges and scrutiny filmmakers often encounter when funding their projects.
Her statement highlights the imbalance in how different industries are treated when it comes to financial regulations. Farmers, who receive financial aid for agricultural purposes, do not face the same level of investigation regarding the sources of their funding. Ebigieson advocates for a similar approach toward filmmakers, noting that movie production is a legitimate business that contributes significantly to Nigeria’s economy.
The Nollywood industry, often hailed as one of the largest in the world, plays a crucial role in promoting Nigerian culture and providing employment opportunities.
However, the industry’s growth is often hindered by financial difficulties, limited access to funding, and the stringent scrutiny from regulatory bodies like the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).
Ebigieson’s statement resonates with many filmmakers who believe that leniency and support are necessary for the industry to thrive without the fear of excessive investigations.
As the industry continues to expand, Ebigieson’s advocacy calls for more accessible financing options and a broader understanding of the creative economy, just as the agricultural sector benefits from financial support without constant regulatory oversight.
