Fans react as Segun Ogungbe goes shirtless in the streets for ‘IRETE’ (Video)

Ibadan, Nigeria — The Nigerian social media space is currently on fire following a “wild” marketing stunt by veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Segun Ogungbe. In a move that many have described as “the height of the hustle,” the actor was spotted shirtless in a public space, energetically drumming up support for his cinema movie, IRETE.

​While most actors opt for high-budget digital ads, Ogungbe took it to the trenches, leaving many wondering if this is a masterstroke of grassroots marketing or a sign of the grueling pressure in the film industry.

​The sight of the respected filmmaker without a shirt, sweatily engaging the public, quickly went viral. Fans and onlookers couldn’t hide their shock, with one witness exclaiming, “Odidi Ba lele… Omo, to make money no easy oo! But has it really gotten to this level? Marketing is truly not for the weak.”

​The move has sparked a massive debate online, with the “shirtless” imagery becoming the talk of the town ahead of the movie’s release.

​As the images and videos circulate, Nigerians have taken to the comment sections to air their views. For many, Ogungbe’s actions represent the raw dedication needed to survive in a tough economy.

​“You will not labour in vain, more sales in Jesus name,” one fan prayed, while another added: “Segun Ogungbe is one of the best movie writers and producers we have. If he thinks this is the best way to promote his cinema movie, then good for him.”

​However, not everyone is sold on the stunt. Some critics believe that “over-hyping” through stunts often masks a lack of quality content.

​“Something wey I will still not watch,” a skeptic wrote on Facebook. “This much energy is nothing but a show to us that ‘you want to sell us a scrap.’ A good movie would hype itself.”

​Whether you love it or hate it, one thing is certain: Segun Ogungbe has everyone talking. By stripping down and hitting the streets, he has ensured that the name IRETE is on the lips of every Nollywood fan this week.

​In an era where attention is the new currency, Ogungbe has proven that he is willing to do whatever it takes to ensure his project doesn’t get lost in the noise.

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