Upcoming Celebrities | 16 July 2011 06:21 CET

‘Sexual Harassment Is A Virus In Nollywood’

By TOPE OLUKOLE
Olajuwon Sekirat

Olajuwon Sekirat

Olajuwon Sekinat is gradually becoming a force to reckon with in the Nigerian movie industry. She speaks about herself and career in this interview with TOPE OLUKOLE.

What prompted you into acting?

I didn't get into acting by chance; I actually took after my mum because she is an actress. Her name is Mrs Rafiat Olowu a.k.a Iya Ibeji. I had opportunities of following her to locations right from a tender age. In fact, I acted in her movie entitled: Tani Baba Mi? in 1994 as well as in Opon Ti Sun in 1999.

My first day on set was quite memorable as I was nervous and shy. I debuted with a film entitled: Owo Asela in 2004. Presently, I've featured in over 100 movies and I'm still counting.

What about production?

I started as a producer with the film entitled: Arebi in 2009, this was followed by Olugbeja Wa in 2010, while 21 Years is my third and latest work.

Are you married?

Presently, I'm single but in a relationship and I'm planning to get married, hopefully, next year.

What about him?

That's personal to me. Will let you know about him at the appropriate time.

When did you have your first kiss?

I had that when I was 18, with my first boyfriend.

What is your favourite colour and design?

My favourite colours are Pink and Yellow, while my favourite designers are Gucci & Giorgio Armani.

What can you not do without?

My BlackBerry.

What are your hobbies?

Singing and watching movies.

Can you act nude?

No, never! Not even for the whole world.

What is your take on lesbianism?

I am not into it, I don't know who are into it and I have not been approached about it.

Any sexual harassment?

Ah! Please permit my bluntness, it does exist. It's really a virus that is eating deep into our industry, but like I always tell people, we are all mature enough to accept what we want and reject what we don't want.

What inspired your new film?

The inspiration for 21 years actually stemmed from the true life experience of my best friend. She confided in me during her trying period and I really felt for her. After a while, with her consent and co-operation, I decided to share it with the rest of the world.

It's a movie that teaches all moral trappings of family, marriage and society. You just need to watch it to understand what I am saying.

Which is your best production so far?

21 Years of course! You know, one improves with every new work. So, I believe my latest work should be used to evaluate my professional ability. Also, I think I have been able to fulfill one of my social responsibilities, as a producer, because the movie addressed a lot of societal issues.

What will you do next?

After the premiere, I want to ensure the successful release of 21 Years, into the market, before hitting location for another production. You may ask, why so soon but I tell you, there are so many tales in our society that are yet to be told through the film medium.

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