Miss Nigeria apologises to Omotola after viral Interview drama

The Miss Nigeria Organisation has issued a strongly worded apology to veteran Nollywood actress and cultural icon Omotola Jalade-Ekeinde following a tense on-camera exchange that has sparked intense debate across social media.

The incident occurred during the 46th Miss Nigeria Patrons & Board Dinner, a strictly invite-only private event held on March 22, 2026, at the Eko Hotel & Suites in Lagos to officially kick off the 2026 pageant season under the theme “She is Made of More.”

The glamorous gathering brought together industry leaders, creatives, policymakers, and celebrities including Rita Dominic (Chairman of the Miss Nigeria Organisation), Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo, Ini Edo, and others.

It also featured the Daily Times Young Fashion Designer of the Year Award and a keynote address by business leader Aisha Sulaiman Achimugu.

A short video clip from the evening quickly went viral, showing Omotola appearing visibly irritated during what seemed to be an impromptu red-carpet-style interview.

The media representative reportedly asked her to introduce herself with a question along the lines of “Who am I here with?”, a moment many interpreted as unprepared or unprofessional.

Omotola, a household name for nearly three decades, responded with evident frustration, at one point saying “Don’t touch me” and walking away from the interaction.

In its official statement released on Tuesday, the Miss Nigeria Organisation, moved swiftly to address the controversy.

“We wish to publicly extend our sincerest apologies to Omotola for the discomfort she experienced,” the statement read.

“She is a deeply valued member of the Miss Nigeria community, a close friend of the organisation, and a woman who has spent decades paving the way for young creatives in this country. She deserves the utmost respect and care.”

The organisation clarified that the dinner was never intended as an open press event. While acknowledging the important role of Nigerian media, it stressed that media access must follow “designated and coordinated channels” at private functions.

Crucially, the statement revealed that the individual involved “was not invited by the Miss Nigeria Organisation and had no official affiliation with our event.”

It further disclosed that the circulating clip was edited and did not capture the full context: multiple people had reportedly invaded Omotola’s personal space, persisting despite her clear discomfort.

“That behaviour; approaching a woman uninvited, encroaching on her personal space, and persisting after she had clearly expressed her discomfort; is completely unacceptable, and we will not stand for it,” the statement emphasised.

“Omotola was gracious enough to engage in good faith, and that goodwill was taken advantage of.”

The organisation appealed to media practitioners to respect event protocols and guests’ privacy, while urging the public to “exercise kindness and context before rushing to judge a situation based on a short clip.”

It reaffirmed support for the actress: “Omotola is an icon who has opened doors for many, and we stand firmly with her.”

The statement also directed fans to channel their support into something tangible, watching her directorial debut, Mother’s Love, currently showing in cinemas nationwide, saying that notably, 100% of the theatrical proceeds from the film are being donated to Slum2School Africa, an education-focused charity.