- Safiu Kehinde
Nollywood actor, Femi Branch, has triggered public outrage after allegedly slapping a First movie assistant director during shooting at an undisclosed location.
As disclosed in a statement issued by the National Film Crew Community (NFCC), the incident occurred on Wednesday when the 1st A.D questioned why filming started without the Assistant Director and the Director of Photography present.
In reaction, Femi Branch allegedly insulted and slapped the 1st A.D.
The actor attempted to leave the location after other crew members, in solidarity with their colleague, refused to continue filming.
Femi Branch was however compelled to apologise as he was denied exit from the location.
Filming resumed under the instructions of the assaulted 1st A.D.
Femi Branch’s attempt to leave the location after the incident was however captured in a now viral video on social media.
As seen in the video, one of the senior crew members who appeared to be the movie director challenged the actor on his way to his car.
In his defense, Femi Branch accused the supposed Director of lacking control over his crew while threatening to report the estate’s security operative who refused to open the gate for him.
Speaking to a man by the estate gate, Branch claimed being among those who fight for the rights of crew members.
“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.
Meanwhile, the NFCC commended the crew members for standing in solidarity with their colleague following the alleged assault.
“We commend the entire production crew for standing firmly against violence and upholding respect and integrity on set.” The community stated.