Nollywood star Bolaji Ogunmola is considering stepping away from social media after a wave of criticism over intimate scenes in her latest movie, The Bloom After. The backlash intensified this week following the release of the film, in which Ogunmola shares multiple on-screen kisses with co-star Daniel Etim-Effiong, sparking heated debate among online audiences.
The controversy began when a social media user, identifying as “I hate lies,” reacted to the movie’s romantic scenes, describing the frequent kissing as “too much” and suggesting it made the actors appear romantically involved off screen. The critic also questioned why Ogunmola’s character only shared a kiss with Etim-Effiong and not another male co-star. Comparisons were drawn to high-profile celebrity romances that emerged from on-set chemistry, further fuelling speculation.
In a robust response, Ogunmola dismissed the comments as reductive and disrespectful, stressing that the film’s emotional core goes beyond physical affection. In her rebuttal, she emphasised that she and Etim-Effiong “don’t even talk outside of work,” condemning any insinuation of a real-life relationship. She also branded some online critics with sharp language, expressing frustration at how social media discussions can divert attention from artistic intent.
Ogunmola later hinted that the intensity of online commentary might prompt her to limit or even abandon her personal social media use, suggesting she might rely on a social media manager instead to shield her creative focus.
The film The Bloom After explores themes of self-discovery and empowerment following long-term heartbreak, a narrative Ogunmola says has been overlooked amid the uproar over a few brief moments on screen.
In response to the online storm, veteran Nollywood actress Uche Jombo weighed in, reminding critics that love scenes are part of the craft, and not as “fun” or trivial as they might appear, urging greater respect for actors’ professional boundaries.
As the discussion around Ogunmola’s performance continues, the episode underscores the ongoing tension between creative expression in Nigerian cinema and public expectations of on-screen intimacy.
