Chief Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), has strongly refuted allegations that he was arrested and detained by the police in Umuahia, the Abia State capital. The incident, which stemmed from ongoing tensions in the Abia chapter of the Guild, has drawn significant attention on social media and local news outlets.
In a phone interview, Rollas described the reports as “malicious” and “unfounded,” emphasizing that he had called the police himself to address a disruptive situation at a Guild meeting. “I was not arrested or detained. I was the one who invited the police to intervene after my safety was threatened,” Rollas clarified.
The rumors of his arrest surfaced following a meeting of the Abia State chapter of the Guild, which has been embroiled in leadership disputes for over a year. The crisis dates back to 2024 when, according to AGN officials, a faction led by David Amalaha conducted an unauthorized election, defying the Guild’s constitution. This move led to a series of interim administrations in the state chapter while the legal dispute remains unresolved.
In light of this, Rollas appointed Emmanuel Ehumadu, popularly known as Labista, as the new interim chairman of the Abia chapter. The contentious January 9, 2025, meeting was the first under Ehumadu’s leadership. Rollas, who was in Umuahia for personal reasons, decided to attend the meeting to support the new chairman and encourage members’ participation.
During the meeting, tensions flared when an unidentified individual in the crowd began hurling verbal abuses at Rollas and the AGN national body. “After delivering my speech about the Guild’s plans for 2025, a man raised his hand, claiming he wanted to speak, but instead, he started making threats and insults,” Rollas recounted.
Concerned about his safety and the escalating situation, Rollas contacted the Assistant Inspector General of Police (AIG) for Zone 9. The police intervened, questioning the disruptive individuals and ensuring the meeting could proceed without further incidents. Rollas later visited the police station to formally report the threats to his life.
Shortly after the meeting, local blogs circulated claims that Rollas had been arrested and detained. These allegations were swiftly dismissed by Rollas and his spokesperson, Cornel Udofia. In a statement, Udofia described the reports as “a figment of imagination,” accusing the writers of attempting to tarnish the Guild’s reputation and disrespecting the Nigeria Police Force.
“Our attention has been drawn to news making the rounds in local Abia blogs claiming that the AGN National President, Dr. Ejezie Emeka Rollas MON, was arrested and detained. This is utterly false,” the statement read.
Udofia also provided additional context, explaining that Rollas’s presence at the meeting was coincidental and linked to personal matters. “The National President was in the state due to the death of his mother-in-law. His attendance at the meeting was to support the new interim chairman and encourage unity among members,” Udofia clarified.
The Abia State chapter of the AGN has been plagued by leadership disputes since 2024, with allegations of unconstitutional elections and power struggles disrupting its operations. The National Guild has repeatedly emphasized its commitment to resolving the crisis in line with its constitution and legal frameworks.
“The Abia situation has been a tough battle, but we remain focused on restoring order. The appointment of Mr. Emmanuel Ehumadu as interim chairman is part of our effort to stabilize the chapter,” Rollas stated.
Despite the challenges, Rollas reaffirmed his dedication to the Guild and its members. He outlined plans for 2025, including national programs aimed at professional development and better opportunities for actors. “The Guild’s mission is to support its members and create an enabling environment for their growth. We will not be deterred by distractions or baseless rumors,” he vowed.
As the dust settles on the controversy, the AGN leadership has called for calm and urged members to remain united. “The Guild belongs to all of us. Let us work together to resolve our differences and move forward,” Rollas appealed to members.
The Guild also warned against the spread of unverified information, reminding the public of the damage such reports can cause. “We urge bloggers and media outlets to verify their stories before publication. Falsehoods do not serve the public or the profession,” Udofia said.
