Veteran Nollywood actor Kola Olaiya has criticised fellow actor Pete Edochie over the debate on seniority in the Nigerian film industry, accusing him of overlooking the contributions of earlier theatre practitioners.
Olaiya made the remarks during an interview with newsmen amid renewed discussions about who qualifies as a pioneer in Nigerian acting.
He cited late theatre legend Hubert Ogunde, whose theatrical career began in 1944, alongside veterans Oyin Adejobi, Duro Ladipo and Kola Ogunmola, as pioneers whose contributions laid the foundation for the industry.
The Yoruba actor maintained that discussions about seniority should recognise the early theatre practitioners who helped shape Nigerian entertainment long before some prominent English-language actors rose to fame.
The debate has continued to spark reactions among entertainment followers, particularly over the distinction between age, professional experience and contributions to the development of Nollywood.
