“I Escaped Death” — Yemi Solade Recounts Near-Death Experience During 1992 Zango Kataf Riot

Veteran Nollywood actor Yemi Solade has opened up about how he narrowly escaped being killed during the Zango Kataf riot in Kaduna back in 1992.

Speaking in an interview with OAP Daddy Freeze on Glitch Africa Studios, Solade revealed that he was caught in heavy traffic when armed men surrounded him. At that moment, they attempted to slit his throat.

In a desperate attempt to save his life, the actor shouted:
“La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah,” — despite being a Christian.

Surprisingly, the men stepped back and spared him after hearing the declaration.

Sharing the emotional moment, Solade said:
“After the Zango Kataf riot, I escaped death. By dint of grace and divine arrangement, they wanted to slit my throat. I just shouted La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah, and they gave themselves a signal and disappeared.”

Yemi Solade Applauds Genevieve Nnaji’s Quiet Elegance in Nollywood

Veteran Nollywood actor and producer Yemi Solade has weighed in on how celebrities balance fame, wealth, and social media.

In an interview with Glitch Africa Studios, Solade pointed out the difference between stars who flaunt luxury lifestyles online and those who prefer to keep things private.

Using Genevieve Nnaji as an example, he praised her for staying low-key despite her legendary status.

“There is an actress, a true reference point, and you will never find her flaunting anything. Let me mention her name — Genevieve Nnaji,” he said.

He continued:

“I’ve never seen Genevieve post pictures or videos with luxury items. Whenever she shares content, it’s usually in a simple setting, and no one can really tell what she owns.”


His comments have sparked discussions about the pressures of celebrity culture and how Genevieve’s choice to live privately makes her a timeless role model.

Yemi Solade Speaks Out: Work Shouldn’t Take a Backseat to Church

Veteran Nollywood actor Yemi Solade has addressed the debate on whether professionals should prioritise church attendance over work commitments on Sundays.

In an interview highlighted by The Nation, Solade recounted how, as far back as 2013, he was advised to tell producers not to schedule him for Sunday shoots. He rejected the advice, stressing that faith should not come at the expense of one’s career.

Solade argued that the entertainment industry, like many modern professions, demands flexibility, including weekends. Opportunities can be fleeting, and consistently being available is key to success. He warned that excessive religious demands can place unnecessary pressure on professionals and interfere with their financial stability.

He stated that while religion remains central in the lives of many Nigerians, it should not dictate career decisions. Church participation, he believes, should complement life—not hinder professional growth.

The actor’s perspective highlights the ongoing conversation in Nigeria about balancing faith with career responsibilities, particularly in sectors where weekend work is often unavoidable.

"I'm senior to Pete Edochie. I started acting before him eventhough he's older than me" - Actor Yemi Solade on Nollywood pioneers.