Nollywood actor Taye Arimoro has formally challenged his suspension by the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN), Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), and Association of Movie Producers (AMP) over his recent on-set altercation with actress Peggy Ovire.
The incident occurred during the filming of the movie Pieces of Love.
In a strongly-worded petition, Arimoro’s lawyer, Inibehe Effiong, faulted the suspension, describing the joint action by the guilds as “procedurally improper, legally indefensible, and constitutionally void.”
Effiong highlighted several grounds for contesting the sanctions, including alleged misidentification, lack of jurisdiction, failure to follow due process, and denial of fair hearing.
According to him, the guilds addressed Arimoro as “Taiye Ayimoro” instead of his correct name, Taiwo Arimoro, and did not present him with evidence or an opportunity to defend himself before issuing the suspension.
Most significantly, Effiong argued that Arimoro is not a member of any of the guilds involved and therefore cannot be subjected to their disciplinary processes.
“Our client is not a member of DGN, AGN, or AMP. These three bodies lack jurisdiction to discipline or regulate him in any manner whatsoever,” the letter stated.
“No association is empowered by law to exercise coercive or disciplinary powers over persons who are not its members.”
The legal team further described the disciplinary action as an unlawful interference with Arimoro’s professional career and a violation of his constitutional right to freedom of association.
Arimoro is demanding:
Failing this, he has threatened to file a ₦1 billion lawsuit against the guilds and their respective presidents.
“Take notice that if DGN, AGN, and AMP fail, refuse, or neglect to comply, our client has given us instruction to commence legal proceedings seeking, inter alia, the sum of ₦1,000,000,000.00 in damages,” the letter reads in part.
Effiong urged the bodies to “take corrective action immediately,” warning that “a stitch in time saves nine.”
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