Veteran Yoruba actor Remy Shittabey has spoken about his long-running rift with actor and filmmaker Adebayo Salami, popularly known as Oga Bello.

The actor said he had apologised several times but had not been forgiven. He also said the disagreement had affected his career.

Shittabey speaks on their relationship

Speaking in an interview on Agbaletu TV, Shittabey said he still respects and loves Oga Bello. He insisted he never meant to offend him.

“I love Oga Bello so much, and he knows it, but he doesn’t like me because he believes I offended him. I didn’t offend him, but he thinks I did. There is nothing he wants to do that I wouldn’t attend or honour his invitation to. I have always seen him as a father,” he said.

Memories of Oga Bello’s generosity

Shittabey recalled visiting Oga Bello’s home during his early days in the Yoruba film industry.

According to him, he and fellow actor Alade Aromire often walked to Salami’s house in Ebute Meta. He described the veteran actor as generous and supportive.

“Back when he lived in Ebute Meta, I saw him as a father; Alade Aromire and I used to trek to his house. He is very generous, so whenever we were broke, we knew we would eat there, and he would even give us money before we left,” he said.

‘He hasn’t forgiven me’

The actor said he had tried to make peace with Oga Bello. However, he claimed the veteran filmmaker had not forgiven him.

Shittabey added that he lost several opportunities because of the rift. He noted that Oga Bello holds considerable influence in the industry.

“He believes I offended him, and although I have begged him, he hasn’t forgiven me. Because of that, I lost many opportunities since he is often the deciding factor in certain things, and once he makes a decision, it is final. I don’t want to say more about it, but I still love him to this day.”

Despite their differences, Shittabey said his respect and affection for Oga Bello remain unchanged.