Nollywood actor Femi Branch has drawn heavy criticism following allegations that he assaulted a First Assistant Director during a movie production at an undisclosed location.
The National Film Crew Community (NFCC) confirmed the development in a statement, revealing that the confrontation took place on Wednesday.
Tensions reportedly escalated when the 1st A.D questioned why filming had started without the presence of key figures—the Assistant Director and Director of Photography. Branch allegedly reacted by insulting and slapping the crew member.
In protest, fellow crew members reportedly halted the shoot, refusing to continue unless the issue was addressed. Branch attempted to leave the location but was prevented from exiting until he offered an apology. Filming later resumed, with the 1st A.D remaining in charge.
A video that has since circulated online shows the actor approaching his vehicle while being challenged by a senior crew member believed to be the director. During the exchange, Branch expressed frustration with how the set was managed and directed threats at a security guard who had refused to open the estate gate for him.
“I respect them. I don’t relate to them as my juniors. I’m one of the people that fight for crew members and the way crew members are treated. Ask anybody in Nollywood,” he said during the confrontation near the gate.
Reacting to the situation, the NFCC commended the crew for standing together and rejecting any form of abuse on set.
“We commend the entire production crew for standing firmly against violence and upholding respect and integrity on set,” the statement read.
