Nollywood actress and producer Lilian Afegba, widely known as Lilian Afegbai, took to social media to express her disappointment over exclusion from the 12th Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA) nomination list following her performance in the movie, ‘To Kill a Monkey’.

Despite the show receiving eight nominations in other categories, Afegbai was notably absent from the Best Supporting Actress category. Taking to X (formerly Twitter), the actress wrote.

“I always choose to believe everything happens for a reason. I don’t need a nomination for validation. The truth is clear: nobody trended like IDIA from TKAM last year. Her acting was 100/100. You guys can eat your award. AMVCA SMH.” She said.

The controversy comes after Afegbai’s standout performance in the 2025 Netflix crime thriller series, ‘To Kill a Monkey’, directed by the renowned movie producer, Kemi Adetiba.

In the series, Afegbai played the character Idia, a feisty and sassy presence that many critics labeled a “breath of fresh air.” Her portrayal was particularly lauded for its authenticity, her seamless delivery of pidgin English, and the emotional depth she brought to a high-stakes narrative of betrayal and crime.

Lilian was born in Benin City, Edo State. Lilian grew up in a disciplined yet supportive household. She is the daughter of the late Mr. Adams Afegbai, a retired police officer and farmer, and Mrs. Afegbai. Her upbringing in Edo State deeply influenced her work ethic and her cultural identity, which she frequently showcases in her storytelling and public persona.

She began her academic journey in Benin City, attending Our Ladies of Apostles for her primary education and Word of Faith Group of Schools for her secondary studies. Her passion for the arts was evident from a young age, often participating in church plays. However, she prioritized her formal education, eventually enrolling at Benson Idahosa University, where she earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting.

She first caught the continent’s attention as a contestant on Big Brother Africa (Season 9) in 2014.

While the reality show provided the initial platform, she refused to be boxed into just being a “reality star”.

She transitioned into acting with a hunger to prove her craft. Afegbai appeared in several TV series and films. Her “limelight” moment as a serious industry player came in 2018 when she produced the film “Bound.”

The project was a success and earned her an AMVCA for Best Indigenous Movie (Igbo) that year, proving she had the range to both act and lead behind the scenes.

Last year was undeniably a massive one for Lilian.

Her role in To Kill a Monkey sparked conversation across social media, with fans frequently highlighting her “Idia” scenes as some of the most memorable in the series. (Guardian)