Veteran cinematographer and director, Tunde Kelani, has given reasons for his resignation as the chairman and member of the National Film and Video Censors Board [NFVCB].

Kelani had tendered his resignation in December 2016, saying he was not used to “negative behavioural manifestations”.

However, speaking in a Punch’s Sunday Scoop report, Kelani, who said he planned to continue working, said he resigned because he felt he would be of better service to the NFVCB as a stakeholder

He said,

“Being a member of NFVCB wasn’t financially rewarding as most thought; it was a service to the country. We were supposed to formulate policies that would support the movie industry. I resigned because I felt I could do more as a stakeholder. I felt I would be more useful to the industry if I was not part of the board.

“Being a member of NFVCB wasn’t a full-time job; we were just expected to hold meetings three times a year. As a matter of fact, there was no time I left my job as a filmmaker. But for the last four years, I have not released any new production. I have movies I can release but it wouldn’t be wise to do that because it will be pirated within 24 hours. It is not sustainable to keep working for pirates because we invest a lot in our movies.

“Piracy has affected the traditional DVD distribution network; so, we have to look towards technology and other platforms. This year, I think we will have solutions.”