The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) has dismissed claims circulating online that its National President, Emeka Rollas, was arrested and detained by police in Umuahia, the capital of Abia State. The allegations reportedly stemmed from his involvement in appointing an unelected chairman for the AGN’s Abia State chapter.

In a statement issued by the Guild’s spokesperson, Cornel Udofia, the AGN labeled the reports as malicious and baseless. The statement clarified that Rollas was not arrested but rather visited the police station to lodge a complaint regarding the ongoing leadership crisis in the state chapter.

The AGN explained that since 2024, the Abia State chapter had been embroiled in a leadership tussle. A faction led by David Amalaha allegedly conducted an unauthorized election, bypassing the AGN National Body—a clear violation of the Guild’s constitution.

To address the unrest, the Guild implemented interim leadership structures, appointing Emmanuel Ehumadu, popularly known as Labista, as the new interim chairman. Rollas’ visit to Abia, which coincided with mourning his late mother-in-law, included attending the chapter's meeting to encourage unity among members.

The AGN statement read:

“Recently, Mr. Emmanuel Ehumadu, aka Labista, was appointed as the new Interim Chairman of the Abia State Chapter. On January 9, 2025, he held his first meeting. The National President, Dr. Ejezie Emeka Rollas, MON, attended to support the chapter’s progress. The arrest rumors are unfounded, as it was Rollas who went to make a complaint at the police station.”

Opinion: The Need for Unity Within the Guild

This incident underscores the persistent challenges facing professional associations like the AGN in Nigeria. Leadership disputes, if not carefully managed, can tarnish the Guild’s reputation and hinder its progress. The Abia State crisis is a stark reminder of the importance of constitutional adherence and collective decision-making.

Rollas’ proactive steps to engage with the chapter amid personal loss highlight his commitment to resolving internal conflicts. However, the AGN must establish more robust mechanisms to prevent such disputes from escalating. Transparency in leadership selection and consistent communication can play a pivotal role in fostering unity.

Moreover, the spread of false information, such as the arrest rumors, not only damages personal reputations but also disrupts organizational harmony. This serves as a call for caution in media reportage and a reminder for the Guild to address such misinformation swiftly and effectively.

As the AGN continues to grow, members must prioritize collaboration over division. A united front will not only strengthen the Guild internally but also enhance its influence in shaping the Nigerian entertainment industry.