Nollywood actress Lilian Afegbai, popularly known as Lily Afe, has issued a public apology following her reaction to being overlooked at the 12th edition of the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards.
In a statement shared via her X account on Saturday, the actress admitted her earlier response was inappropriate, describing it as disrespectful and uncalled for.
“This apology should have come earlier. That tweet should not have happened. No excuse,” she wrote.
Afe acknowledged that her reaction—sparked by disappointment over missing out on a Best Supporting Actress nomination—was driven by emotion and a sense of entitlement.
She had expressed frustration after her role in To Kill A Monkey, a project she described as her breakthrough moment, failed to earn her a nomination.
Offering a candid reflection, the actress apologised not only to the AMVCA organisers but also to fellow nominees, her colleagues on the film, and her supporters.
“It was disrespectful to AMVCA, the nominees, my To Kill A Monkey family, and all of you who have supported me. Honestly, I was disappointed, but that’s not an excuse for how I responded,” she added.
Afe further revealed that her reaction stemmed from years of feeling overlooked in the industry, noting that the film represented a turning point in her career.
“I’ve come a long way in my journey, and for a long time I felt invisible. To Kill A Monkey felt like my ‘now they see me’ moment, and I held on to that very tightly,” she said.
Taking responsibility, the actress pledged to learn from the experience and do better moving forward.
“I was wrong and I am sorry. Please give me a chance to be better. I no go fall una hand again,” she concluded.