Rita Daniels, mother of Nollywood star Regina Daniels, lost the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) presidential election on December 6, 2025, in Benin City, Edo State, securing 113 votes against winner Abubakar Yakubu's 116, with three ballots voided. Yakubu, a veteran actor and former National Secretary, becomes the first northern president in AGN's history since 1998, succeeding Emeka Rollas after roles including Vice President, Treasurer, and PRO.
Outgoing president Rollas had urged Rita weeks earlier to prioritize her daughter's well-being amid personal controversies rather than contest, drawing backlash but highlighting guild tensions. Rita, campaigning on member empowerment and protection, resurfaced online December 9 with a video distributing aid to children, thanking God amid fan support flooding her page.
Yakubu's win, alongside Ifeoma Okeke as new Secretary, signals regional balance in Nollywood's over one-million-member body, with past southern leaders like Zack Orji and Ibinabo Fiberesima paving his path.