Nollywood film critic and broadcaster Tolu Fagbure has faced criticism for his recent comments about actress Adebimpe Oyebade Adedimeji, popularly known as Mo Bimpe. Fagbure recalled an encounter with Mo Bimpe during a film project in 2018, describing her conduct at the time as unprofessional. He claimed she did not respond to his initial contact and script, and later asked him to explain the story instead of reading the script.
Fagbure's comments have sparked a fresh debate about his approach to judging actors. Some critics have questioned his position as a person who regularly assesses the performances of other actors while also having acting credits of his own. This has added another dimension to the criticism surrounding Fagbure, whose blunt assessments of Nollywood practitioners have repeatedly generated conversations online.
Fagbure has offered strong opinions about several actors in recent months, sometimes questioning their acting abilities, professionalism or suitability for certain roles. In June, he made comments about Eniola Ajao's acting, arguing that her performance lacked the quality he expected for cinema. Ajao later responded to the criticism, saying she would continue to work, grow and allow audiences to decide on her career.
The critic has also compared the acting abilities of established actresses. In July, he said Wumi Toriola was a better actress than Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham and Mercy Aigbe, a position that sparked debate among movie lovers. Fagbure's comments about Femi Adebayo also attracted attention in August, where he recalled describing Adebayo's acting as "plastic" before changing his opinion after meeting the actor and seeing more of his work.
Fagbure's criticism of Bimbo Ademoye earlier in the year similarly generated reactions. While praising her talent, Fagbure raised concerns about her alleged discipline on film sets, prompting some fans to defend the actress and question the manner in which he delivered his assessment. This renewed backlash comes against the backdrop of Fagbure's increasingly visible role as a commentator on Nollywood and its practitioners.
For his critics, the discussion is no longer only about whether his individual assessments are valid. His own acting has now become part of the conversation, with people examining the same craft he uses to judge other performers. Fagbure has continued to speak openly about the Nigerian film industry, offering both praise and criticism of actors and their work.
The article was published on 23 Sep 2026 by Oluwagbemisola Sadare in The Guardian. The renewed debate has once again placed Fagbure's style of criticism under scrutiny, this time with the focus shifting from the actors he evaluates to the critic himself.
Key points
- Tolu Fagbure faces backlash for comments on actress Mo Bimpe
- Critics question Fagbure's position as a critic and actor
- Fagbure's comments have sparked debate about his approach to judging actors
