Nollywood actress and physiotherapist Jemima Osunde issued a heartfelt plea on May 29, 2025, via her Instagram Stories, urging fans to respect her personal space in public settings.
The 29-year-old, known for roles in A Lagos Love Story and New Money, recounted uncomfortable encounters where fans approached her intrusively, including an incident at a Lagos restaurant where a group recorded her without consent while she dined with family. Osunde emphasized that while she appreciates her supporters, such actions make her feel unsafe and disrespected.
Osunde, who debuted in Nollywood in 2014, highlighted the challenges of fame, noting that constant scrutiny affects her mental health. She clarified that she welcomes polite interactions but finds unsolicited photos and videos invasive, especially when shared online with mocking captions. The actress also addressed fans crowding her at medical facilities where she practices, stressing that her professional role demands discretion. She suggested fans request photos respectfully, promising to oblige when comfortable.
The plea has sparked discussions about celebrity boundaries in Nigeria, with colleagues like Adesua Etomi-Wellington and Tobi Bakre echoing her sentiments. Fans have apologized, with some pledging to be more considerate, while others defended their excitement, citing Osunde’s approachable persona. Osunde thanked supporters for understanding and reiterated her commitment to engaging authentically, as seen in her Jemima’s Diary YouTube series. Her stance underscores the need for mutual respect, positioning her as an advocate for personal boundaries in Nigeria’s entertainment industry.