‘I reacted from hurt’ — Lilian Afegbai apologises after AMVCA outburst

Nollywood actress Lilian Afegbai has apologised for her earlier outburst against the organisers of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA), admitting her reaction to being snubbed was “disrespectful.”

The actress had publicly criticised the award body on March 31 after the release of the 2026 nomination list, expressing frustration over her exclusion despite her role in the film To Kill A Monkey, where she played Idia.

At the time, Afegbai lashed out at the organisers, telling them to “eat their award,” a comment that quickly gained attention across social media and sparked mixed reactions from fans and industry observers.

However, in a statement released on Saturday, the actress walked back her comments, acknowledging that her reaction was inappropriate.

“That tweet should not have happened. No excuse. It was disrespectful to AMVCA, the nominees, my To Kill A Monkey family, and everyone who has supported me,” she said.

From frustration to reflection

Explaining the emotions behind her earlier remarks, Afegbai said her reaction stemmed from disappointment and a deeper sense of being overlooked in the industry.

“Honestly, I was disappointed. But that’s not an excuse for how I responded,” she said, adding that she had “felt invisible for a long time.”

She described her role in To Kill A Monkey as a defining moment in her career, which heightened her expectations for recognition at this year’s awards.

“When I wasn’t nominated, I reacted from a place of hurt and entitlement. I was wrong, and I am sorry,” she added.

Spotlight on AMVCA snubs and reactions

Afegbai’s apology comes amid broader conversations around nominations for the 2026 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards, with fans and industry figures debating omissions and surprises on the list.

While award snubs are not uncommon, public reactions from actors often amplify conversations around recognition, merit, and visibility within Nollywood.

By apologising, Afegbai appears to be taking a step back from the controversy, shifting the narrative from criticism to accountability, while also highlighting the emotional weight that recognition still carries for many actors navigating the industry.

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