In a landmark ruling, Justice Idowu Alakija of the Lagos High Court has ordered the producers of the movie Gangs of Lagos and Amazon Web Services to issue a formal apology to the Isale Eko Descendants Union over the film’s misrepresentation of the Eyo Masquerade.
The lawsuit, filed by the Isale Eko Descendants Union, argued that the film inaccurately depicted the Eyo Masquerade, a revered cultural symbol, by associating it with violence and gangsterism. The court’s ruling reaffirms the need for filmmakers to respect cultural heritage in their portrayals.
Out-of-Court Settlement and Call for Stricter Film Censorship
While the legal battle has been settled amicably out of court, the case underscores growing concerns over cultural misappropriation in the entertainment industry.
Adeniji Kazeem, SAN, Chairman of the Isale Eko Descendants Union, commended the court’s decision, citing Nigeria’s commitment to the 2007 United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples (UNDRIP). He also urged national and state film censors to exercise greater scrutiny over productions that feature indigenous cultural elements.
“There is a strong need for Lagos State to assert its constitutional right to oversee the production and censorship of films that utilize its cultural materials and resources,” Kazeem stated.
Mixed Reactions to Gangs of Lagos
Released on Amazon Prime Video in April 2023, Gangs of Lagos, directed by Jade Osiberu, received mixed reviews. While some praised its cinematography and gripping storyline, others criticized its portrayal of Lagos culture, particularly the Eyo Masquerade.
The controversy has sparked a broader debate on cultural representation in the media, with critics arguing that the film’s depiction distorts the true significance of the Eyo Masquerade. The Lagos State Government and cultural custodians have also condemned the film, calling for greater accountability in storytelling that involves traditional heritage.
Cultural Sensitivity in Filmmaking
As the dust settles on this legal dispute, the case serves as a critical reminder of the responsibility filmmakers bear in preserving and accurately representing cultural traditions. The ruling reinforces the need for ethical storytelling and highlights the importance of consulting cultural custodians to ensure accurate portrayals in movies that draw inspiration from real-life traditions.
