Veteran actress Sola Sobowale has shared insights into the damaging effects of drug trafficking rumors on her career. Ms. Sobowale revealed that allegations of her involvement in drug peddling in Saudi Arabia emerged following her relocation to the United Kingdom (UK).
In 2022, she disclosed her move to the UK to support her children by undertaking various jobs. Upon her return to Nigeria, Ms. Sobowale, who ended a 15-year acting hiatus in 2016, secured a significant role in the groundbreaking film 'The Wedding Party.'
Speaking on the Teju Baby Face 'King of Talk' podcast, the actress expressed her gratitude to God for compensating her despite the negative rumors that circulated during her time abroad. She recounted the false claims of her arrest, amputation, and death in Saudi Arabia, stating that upon her return to Nigeria, many were shocked to see her alive. The actress recalled how rumors suggested she worked menial jobs such as cleaning and restaurant service in the UK, even falsely claiming ownership of a restaurant called 'Emuke,' which belonged to her sister. Before leaving Nigeria for the UK, Ms. Sobowale indeed owned a restaurant named 'Sola's Kitchen,' emphasizing that she was willing to work any job to earn a living abroad, but refuted the drug trafficking accusations.
Ms. Sobowale's illustrious acting career spanned over four decades, starting from her early days in Ibadan's entertainment scene to her breakout roles in series like 'The Village Headmaster' and stage productions such as 'Our Husband Has Gone Mad Again' by Femi Osofisan. After a hiatus, she returned to prominence in 2016 with notable performances in 'The Wedding Party' and its sequel, as well as the critically acclaimed 'King of Boys' and its subsequent series. In 2022, she ventured into Bollywood with her first role in an upcoming film directed by Hamisha Daryani Ahuja, further expanding her diverse acting portfolio. Additionally, she starred in 'Anikulapo' and its sequel 'Anikulapo: The Rise to Spectre' in 2023, solidifying her status as a versatile actress.
