Nollywood actress and filmmaker Toyin Abraham has publicly accused some cinemas of unfair practices affecting the screening and ticket sales of her new movie, Oversabi Aunty.
During a live Instagram session, the actress alleged that some cinemas are misleading customers by claiming the film is sold out when tickets are still available.
She further claimed that some moviegoers are issued tickets for different films instead of Oversabi Aunty, significantly affecting attendance and revenue.
According to Toyin, audiences are sometimes redirected to other screening halls under the guise of ticketing “mistakes,” despite specifically requesting her movie. She urged moviegoers to insist on receiving tickets for the correct film and to verify their tickets in the presence of cinema staff.
“They’ll give you another ticket and say it’s a mistake. They will take you to another hall to watch a different film. Please, when they give you that, tell them no, you want Oversabi Aunty,” she said.
The filmmaker also expressed concern over what she described as unfavourable screening schedules.
She claimed that some cinemas assigned her movie extremely early-morning and late-night time slots, which she said limit audience turnout and affect box office performance.
“Some cinemas are crazy — they give one person 10 a.m. and 9 p.m. shows. How can the film make money? I produced a good movie, directed it, did publicity, and yet we are given inconvenient showtimes,” she added.
Toyin revealed that while she has evidence to support her claims, many affected individuals are reluctant to speak out due to fear of bullying or backlash within the industry.
She appealed to cinema operators to ensure fair scheduling and transparent ticketing practices, stressing that filmmakers invest significant time, resources, and effort into producing and promoting their work.
As of the time of reporting, the cinemas mentioned have not issued a public response to the allegations.
