Veteran Nollywood actor, Anayo Modestus Onyekwere, popularly known as Kanayo O. Kanayo, has spoken out against wealthy Nigerian men who fund lavish lifestyles of actresses in the entertainment industry.

In a recent episode of “The Honest Bunch” podcast, Kanayo said such financial support creates an unfair perception that male actors are not working hard.

According to him, this also creates financial disparities and jeopardises the careers of their male counterparts.

“Many Nigerian rich men patronize our women and give them benefits that make us look like we are not working hard. Nigerian rich men spend money on our girls to the extent that it impoverishes us and makes it look like we don’t work hard,” he said.

Kanayo elaborated on the disparity: “You call a girl, she says she wants to do a production, she’s your girlfriend from whatever benefits she gives you. How much is she asking for this production, N150m, N100m? But me wey be KOK, go and work hard my friend, we all men.”

He pointed out that male actors often face financial difficulties without the same support: “It’s not a good situation. Have you seen any lady ask for financial help for medical expenses? No, it’s only the men. We are an endangered species.

“Many girls are desperate to act, telling a man do with me whatever you want. When you offer a man and say, Oga give me that role, I will come to your hotel, what is this, I am not a child. What do you expect?” he queried.