Eniola Badmus apologises to Laide Bakare, calls for peace

Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has called for reconciliation with her colleague Laide Bakare after facing criticism over her reaction to Bakare’s name during a recent podcast interview.

Badmus issued a public apology on Tuesday in a statement shared on her Instagram page, acknowledging that her response during Isbae U’s Curiosity Made Me Ask podcast may have appeared dismissive.

The actress said she had reflected on the incident and recognised that her reaction could have been interpreted negatively.

“On reflection, I realise my reaction when Laide Bakare’s name was mentioned during my recent interview could have come across as dismissive, and for that, I sincerely apologise,” she stated.

Badmus also sent a direct message to Bakare, making it clear that she wanted to move past their differences.

“Laide, whatever our differences, I choose peace, and I genuinely wish you well,” she wrote.

Beyond the apology, the actress stressed that maturity involves recognising when it is time to put disagreements behind and focus on becoming better individuals.

She noted that everyone continues to learn and grow, adding that moving forward sometimes requires letting go of past issues.

“We’re all growing, learning and becoming better versions of ourselves. Sometimes maturity is simply knowing when to let go and move forward,” Badmus said.

She concluded by urging an end to negativity and resentment, encouraging both parties to embrace peace and goodwill.

The apology comes after a clip from the podcast went viral online. In the footage, the host mentioned Bakare as one of his favourite actresses, prompting a facial expression from Badmus that attracted widespread attention.

The moment triggered reactions from social media users, some of whom criticised the actress over what they perceived as a dismissive response.

Isbae U, the host of the programme, also reacted to the development, expressing support for reconciliation between the actresses.

“Let love lead. Na my interview go fix Nigeria in whole. I love you both so much. You both should give me a kiss,” he wrote.

Badmus’ apology represents a public effort to address the backlash and encourage a more peaceful relationship with Bakare, although the actresses’ future interactions remain to be seen.