Halima Abubakar suspended by AGN for slander

Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar has been indefinitely suspended by the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) for what the guild described as professional misconduct.

The AGN’s decision follows a two-year secret investigation into allegations that Abubakar had engaged in defamatory behavior, including spreading false information about colleagues, associates, and prominent individuals.

The suspension was officially announced in a statement on Friday, where the guild disclosed that Abubakar’s actions were part of a broader inquiry into slanderous claims within the Nollywood industry.

According to the AGN, the investigation uncovered that the actress was responsible for “slandering Nollywood” and making unsubstantiated allegations of extramarital affairs involving high-profile figures, including patrons and members of the film industry.

The AGN’s Special Secret Investigation Panel, set up in 2022, conducted an in-depth probe into various blogs and bloggers allegedly involved in these activities. After two years of investigation, the panel identified Abubakar as the primary source of the defamatory information.

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As a result, the AGN has placed her on indefinite suspension, barring her from participating in any guild-related or filming activities. The statement also noted that she will face the National Disciplinary Committee, which will determine the full extent of her punishment.

The guild further revealed that other female members remain on a watch-list, particularly in connection to the recent release of names allegedly linked to extramarital dealings with Senate President Godswill Akpabio. These individuals are still under investigation by the secret panel.

Legal experts have weighed in on the situation, with barrister Tunde Ogunsanya, a media law specialist, commenting, “This type of slander can seriously damage reputations within the industry, and it is crucial that these claims are addressed to protect the integrity of Nollywood. The AGN’s action shows a commitment to holding members accountable for their conduct.”

As the investigation continues, the AGN is determined to restore order and professionalism within Nollywood, reinforcing its zero-tolerance policy toward any form of defamation or misconduct.