By Zuleihat Owuiye, Nigeria

Nollywood actress Eniola Badmus has publicly apologised to her colleague, Laide Bakare, following criticism over her reaction when Bakare’s name was mentioned during a recent podcast interview.

The actress issued the apology on Tuesday, October 20, 2026, after her comments on the Curiosity Made Me Asked podcast attracted negative reactions on social media.

Badmus, who reportedly has a strained relationship with Bakare, faced criticism from some social media users over how she responded during the conversation.

Following the backlash, the actress took to Instagram to address the controversy, acknowledge how her reaction may have been perceived and appeal for peace between herself and her colleague.

In her statement, Badmus admitted that her response could have appeared dismissive and expressed regret over the impression it created.

“On reflection, I realise my reaction when Laide Bakare’s name was mentioned during my recent interview could have come across as dismissive, and for that, I sincerely apologise,” she wrote.

She also addressed Bakare directly, making it clear that she did not want their differences to lead to further negativity.

“Laide, whatever our differences, I choose peace and I genuinely wish you well. Joo maa binu (please don’t be offended) no negativity. No grudges. Let love lead and peace reigns,” Badmus added.

The apology signals the actress’s willingness to ease tensions following the controversy, although it remains unclear whether the statement will lead to a reconciliation between the two entertainers.

Badmus and Bakare are both established figures in the Yoruba movie industry, with careers spanning acting and other entertainment-related activities.

Their relationship has attracted public interest, particularly amid reports of disagreements between the actresses. Badmus’s latest statement, however, focused on apologising for her reaction during the interview rather than discussing the details of their differences.

The incident has also highlighted how comments made during celebrity interviews can quickly generate debate online, especially when they involve personalities whose relationships have attracted public attention.

By acknowledging that her reaction may have appeared dismissive, Badmus sought to address the criticism without escalating the situation further.

Her appeal for peace and her use of the Yoruba expression “Joo maa binu,” meaning “please don’t be offended,” conveyed a conciliatory message to Bakare.

Neither the details of their disagreement nor Bakare’s response to the apology were included in the report.

For now, Badmus’s public statement represents an attempt to put the controversy behind her and encourage a more peaceful relationship with her colleague.