Actor Bob Manuel Udokwu has come out to insist that another Nollywood legend, Pa Pete Edochie is not the oldest actor in Nollywood, Bob insist that he acted first before Pete Edochie burst into the scene.

The Nollywood scene is buzzing with fresh drama after veteran actor Bob Manuel Udokwu made a striking statement about the legendary Pete Edochie.

Bob Manuel, who has graced countless classic Nigerian films, boldly claimed that while Pete Edochie may have the age advantage, he isn’t the oldest in Nollywood when it comes to his influence and contributions.

Actor Bob Manuel Udokwu

He said:
“Peter Edochie is not the oldest man in Nollywood, despite how he presents himself and misleads others. I’ve been in Nollywood longer than he has, even if he’s older than me.”

The Clash of Nollywood Titans

Pete Edochie, often hailed as the “father of Nollywood,” shot to fame in the 1980s with his unforgettable portrayal of Okonkwo in the adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart. Over the years, he has become a true icon, celebrated not just for his powerful voice and commanding screen presence, but also for his wise proverbs that resonate throughout Africa.

Actor Bob Manuel Udokwu

Meanwhile, Bob Manuel Udokwu, known for his versatility and consistent performances, has also been a significant figure in Nollywood since its inception. His assertion that he entered the industry before Edochie has ignited a fiery debate about who rightfully holds the title of Nollywood’s oldest pillar.    Actor Bob Manuel Udokwu

Fans Weigh In on the Controversy

Social media is ablaze with a mix of reactions:

Some fans passionately defend Pete Edochie’s untouchable status, arguing that he’s one of the most respected figures in Nollywood. On the flip side, others, like Bob Manuel, make a compelling case, suggesting that Nollywood isn’t solely about age but also about those who truly laid the groundwork for the industry’s success.  Actor Bob Manuel Udokwu

Why This Matters for Nollywood History

This discussion sparks a larger conversation about who the real pioneers of Nollywood are. The industry, now the second-largest film market in the world by volume, owes its growth to numerous actors, directors, and producers whose contributions often go unnoticed.

While it’s hard to deny that Pete Edochie is a global ambassador for Nigerian cinema, Bob Manuel’s remarks serve as a reminder that there are many other veterans whose hard work has been instrumental in shaping Nollywood into what it is today.

Whether you’re a staunch supporter of Pete Edochie’s legendary status or you lean towards Bob Manuel’s perspective on seniority, one thing is certain: Nollywood is rich with icons whose legacies will endure for generations to come.  Actor Bob Manuel Udokwu

What’s your take? Is Bob Manuel right in saying that Pete Edochie is just putting on a show, or does Pete still hold the title of the undisputed father of Nollywood?

Meanwhile; Actress Nkiru Sylvanus has come out to clear the air on why she left acting since 8 years ago, she said her decision was never because of marriage but her love for politics made her quit the acting industry.

Nkiru Sylvanus, the popular Nollywood actress who has transitioned into politics, has finally shared the real reason behind her departure from the film industry, despite her rising fame in the past.

In a recent interview, the actress, affectionately known as “Ble Ble” by her fans, clarified that her choice to step away from Nollywood wasn’t due to marriage, as many have speculated, but rather stemmed from her strong desire for a more meaningful career.

“Most people don’t really know why I left Nollywood to chase a different path. Today, I’m fully immersed in politics, but my journey began long before this,” she explained. Continue reading here

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