Ossai Ovie, Senior Special Assistant on Media to the Delta State Governor, has sparked controversy by criticizing actress and filmmaker Omoni Oboli over the release of her film The First Lady, which features the late actor Alexx Ekubo, just days after his burial. The timing of the film’s YouTube premiere on June 18, 2024, drew sharp backlash from Ossai, who described it as inappropriate and suggested it exploited public grief for promotional purposes. He argued that despite Omoni Oboli’s statement that all proceeds from the film would go to Ekubo’s family, the release still appeared to be a calculated move to gain attention rather than a genuine tribute.
In a post shared on his X and Instagram accounts, Ossai expressed concern that the film’s launch was poorly timed, especially given the recent loss of Alexx Ekubo. He acknowledged that Oboli had mentioned her decade-long friendship with the actor and that the project was a personal milestone for her. However, he maintained that linking the film’s release to Ekubo’s passing was insensitive and disrespectful. Ossai emphasized that funerals and mourning periods should not be used as platforms for marketing or content creation, regardless of the intentions behind the gesture.
He further accused Oboli of leveraging emotional sentiment to boost her online presence and grow her digital platform under the guise of honoring the deceased. According to Ossai, Alexx Ekubo’s legacy should be celebrated through his life, work, and contributions to Nollywood, not tied to a film premiere during a time of national mourning. He suggested that if the true intention was to pay tribute, the announcement could have been delayed to show respect for the family and the grieving process.
Ossai concluded by urging the public to uphold the dignity of the dead and avoid turning personal tragedies into entertainment content. His comments have ignited debate online, with many social media users defending Oboli. Some argued that she had consulted with Ekubo’s family and clearly stated that all financial benefits would go to them. Others questioned whether Ossai had watched the full video before posting his critique, suggesting he may have jumped to conclusions.
Despite the criticism, Oboli has not publicly responded to Ossai’s remarks. The incident highlights the growing sensitivity around how public figures handle grief and memory in the digital age, especially within Nigeria’s entertainment industry. As Nollywood continues to evolve, the balance between artistic expression and cultural respect remains a topic of national conversation. The release of The First Lady will likely be remembered not just for its content, but for the ethical debate it has sparked.
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