The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has formally lifted the suspension earlier imposed on Nollywood actress Halima Abubakar, bringing an end to a disciplinary action that began in October 2024.
Abubakar was suspended by the guild after an internal investigation reportedly found her “guilty of spreading false information about fellow members, associates, and patrons, including claims of extramarital affairs involving highly placed individuals.”
Following the decision, the actress instituted a ₦3 billion lawsuit against the AGN, challenging the suspension.
Announcing the reversal during the inauguration of the guild’s new National Executive Council (NEC) in Abuja, outgoing AGN President, Emeka Rollas, said he was unwilling to leave office with any member still under suspension.
“There were persons that we have suspended according to the AGN law, and because I’m leaving office, I don’t want to leave them suspended,” Rollas stated.
Speaking specifically on Abubakar’s case, he explained that while the guild stood by its earlier findings, compassion and fairness informed the final decision.
“Halima Abubakar took AGN to court claiming a frivolous amount of money, but we had our investigations, and we suspended her from all acting and all AGN activities,” he said.
“However, since acting remains her main source of livelihood, it would be wicked for us to leave her like that.
“Therefore today, by the powers imposed on me by the Board of Trustees and the entire Actors Guild of Nigeria, I hereby lift Halima Abubakar’s suspension.”
Rollas also disclosed that the suspensions placed on Christopher Igboji, Chidi Concord, Dan Ewerem, and Jeff Okwute, all members of the Enugu State chapter of the guild, had equally been lifted.
The development came just hours after Abubakar made a public appeal for ₦25 million to fund surgery for a brain tumour.
The event also marked a change in leadership, as Rollas, whose second and final tenure ended in December 2025, formally handed over to Abubakar Yakubu as the new national president of the guild.
Chairman of the inauguration organising committee, Chuks Chyke, praised the outgoing administration, describing its tenure as impactful and transformative.
“Your achievement will remain part of the legacy upon which we continue to build,” Chyke said.
“Today marks a historical moment in the life of the Actors Guild of Nigeria as we witness the peaceful transition of leadership and the inauguration of a new president and National Executive Council.
“This occasion reflects the strength of our institution, the maturity of our processes, and the unity of our creative family.
“I sincerely commend the immediate past president and executives for their service, sacrifice and dedication; your tenure strengthens the foundation of the guild, expanded our professional relevance and upheld the dignity of the Nigerian actor.”
