Alice Iyabo Ojo, born on December 21, 1977, in Lagos, Nigeria, has carved a significant niche for herself in the Nigerian film industry, widely known as Nollywood. With a career spanning over two decades, she has not only made her mark as a prolific actress but has also ventured into film directing and producing. This overview will delve into her early life, education, career milestones, personal life, and notable contributions to both the entertainment industry and society.
Alice Iyabo Ojo Personal Information
| Full Name | Alice Iyabo Ojo |
| Date of Birth | December 21, 1977 |
| Marital Status | Divorced |
| State of Origin | Ogun State |
| Birthplace | Lagos, Nigeria |
| Parents | Father from Abeokuta, Ogun State |
| Occupation | Actress, Film Director, Film Producer |
| Nationality | Nigerian |
| Citizenship | Nigerian |
| Alma Mater | Lagos State Polytechnic |
Early Life And Education
Iyabo Ojo, born as Alice Iyabo Ogunro, entered the world on December 21, 1977, in Lagos, Nigeria. Despite her birthplace, her familial roots trace back to Abeokuta, Ogun State, as her father hailed from there. Growing up, she was the youngest among her siblings, with two older brothers. Her academic journey took her to the National College, Gbagbada, Lagos, and later, she pursued a course in Estate Management at Lagos State Polytechnic.
Alice Iyabo Ojo Acting Career
Having been involved in a drama group during her secondary school days, Iyabo Ojo officially launched her acting career in 1998. Her initiation into the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) was facilitated by fellow actress Bimbo Akintola. This marked the beginning of a journey that would see her feature in over 150 films across both English and Yoruba languages.
Filmography And Production Ventures
Iyabo Ojo’s filmography is extensive, showcasing her versatility as an actress. In 1998, she starred in “Satanic,” her first English-language film, and in 2002, she made her debut in Yoruba-language cinema with “Baba Darijinwon.” Over the years, she scripted and featured in numerous films, with notable ones like “Silence” in 2015.
In 2004, she transitioned to film production, starting with “Bolutife” and followed by productions like “Bofeboko,” “Ololufe,” “Esan,” and “Okunkun Biribiri.” This shift into production demonstrated her multifaceted talents within the film industry.
Alice Iyabo Ojo Personal Life And Challenges
Iyabo Ojo’s personal life has seen its share of challenges and triumphs. At the age of 21, she married a Lagos-based Clearing Agent in 1999, taking a break from her burgeoning career to start a family. She became a mother to a son and a daughter, Felix Ojo and Priscilla Ajoke Ojo, born in 1999 and 2001, respectively. However, the marriage eventually ended in divorce, a decision she attributed to marrying too young. Notably, she expressed her intention to stop using her ex-husband’s surname, Ojo.
Alice Iyabo Ojo Tax Dispute With Lagos State Government
In recent times, Iyabo Ojo found herself in the public eye due to a tax dispute with the Lagos State Government. The government issued a notice demanding the payment of N18,640,092.00 as personal income tax within seven days, citing arrears for the years 2021 and 2022. In response, she took to her Instagram page to voice her dissatisfaction with the tax assessment process, questioning the basis for the substantial amount she was asked to pay. This incident sparked discussions on tax assessment practices and the relationship between individuals and the government in Nigeria.
She emphasized her compliance with tax obligations related to her businesses and personal assets, highlighting her frustration with what she perceived as an unreasonable tax demand. Despite declaring her income and seeking clarification through her tax consultant, she felt a lack of support from the government. This public dispute underscores the need for transparency and fairness in tax assessment procedures.
Philanthropic Endeavors: Pinkies Foundation
Beyond her contributions to the entertainment industry, Iyabo Ojo has demonstrated a commitment to social causes. In May 2011, she launched the Pinkies Foundation, an NGO dedicated to supporting children with special needs and the less privileged. Celebrating its fifth anniversary in 2016, the foundation reflects her desire to make a positive impact on society beyond the realm of entertainment.
Activism And Controversies
Iyabo Ojo’s activism extends beyond her philanthropic efforts. In April 2021, she publicly condemned fellow actor Yomi Fabiyi for sympathizing with Olanrewaju Omikunle (Baba Ijesha), who was arrested for molesting a minor. This condemnation led to legal action against Yomi Fabiyi for making what she deemed “defamatory statements” about her. In response, the Theater Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) blacklisted her in June 2021, signaling a rift within the industry.
Rumors of romantic relationships with political figures such as Dino Melaye and Sen Musiliu Obanikoro have circulated, though none have been substantiated.
Awards
Iyabo Ojo’s filmography boasts a diverse array of productions, including “Satanic” (1998), “Silence” (2015), and “Divorce Not Allowed” (2018). Her contributions have not gone unnoticed, earning her several nominations and awards, such as the Best Supporting Actress – Yoruba at the Best of Nollywood Awards in 2012.
