Nollywood actress Sarah Martins took to Instagram on Sunday to publicly defend Yul Edochie after the actor received no recognition at the Africa Magic Viewers Choice Awards (AMVCA) 12th edition, held on May 9 in Lagos — a stance that has drawn attention given the pair’s turbulent recent history.
Martins, who earlier this year publicly severed ties with Yul and his wife Judy Austin over unpaid fees from a brand deal arrangement, set aside their dispute to insist the actor’s work merited an award. She described Yul as a “fantastic actor” and said the snub was undeserved, stressing she meant “no hate” in speaking out.
The 12th edition of the AMVCA brought together some of Africa’s biggest actors and filmmakers at Eko Hotel and Suites, with major productions including My Father’s Shadow, To Kill a Monkey and Colours of Fire dominating several categories. Yul Edochie featured on neither the nominees nor winners list.
The defence lands as a surprise given how recently Martins was among Yul’s most vocal critics. She had previously apologised to his estranged first wife, May Edochie, for years of supporting Judy Austin’s position in the marriage controversy. Martins had repeatedly dragged Yul and Judy Austin publicly while pledging support for May Edochie.
The post has split social media, with some applauding Martins for separating professional merit from personal grievance, and others questioning the timing.
The AMVCA 2026 nominees were selected across 32 categories, with veteran actress Joke Silva serving as Head Judge for this year’s edition.
