The Lagos State Government has released a statement accusing promoters of newly released movie, ‘Gangs of Lagos,’ of making a mockery of the culture and heritage of Lagos.
The statement shared on the state government’s official website reads:
“Lagos State Government has expressed displeasure with the promoters of the “Gangs of Lagos” film/series over cultural misrepresentation and for portraying the culture of Lagos State in a derogatory manner. “
“A release signed by the Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Pharm. (Mrs.) Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf said the Ministry, being the regulatory body and custodian of the culture of Lagos State, views the film/series as a mockery of the Heritage of Lagos.”
“The Commissioner expressed her disappointment with the promoters of the film, Jade Osiberu and Kemi Akindoju, for portraying the Eyo Masquerade as a gun-wielding villain while adorning the full traditional regalia.”
According to the statement, the film is unprofessional and misleading, and its content is disrespectful to their culture, with the intention of desecrating the respected legacy of the people of Lagos.
However, Akinbile-Yussuf maintained that the ‘Adamu Orisha’, also known as the ‘Eyo Festival,’ is rarely observed and serves only as a customary rite of passage for kings, renowned Chiefs, and prominent Lagosians.
See statement below,
LASG FROWNS AT CULTURAL MISREPRESENTATION BY PROMOTERS OF "GANGS OF LAGOS" FILM/SERIES
Read more: https://t.co/YR2esammnM@jidesanwoolu @drobafemihamzat @LagostourismO @gbenga_omo @gboyegaakosile @fjaji @hmokunola_ @Mr_JAGs #LASG #AGreaterLagosRising#ForAGreaterLagos pic.twitter.com/gPXILuW9y0
— The Lagos State Govt (@followlasg) April 12, 2023
In addition, Lagos indigenes under the aegis of the Isale Eko Descendants’ Union (IDU), have petitioned the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) over alleged defamation of their community and Eyo masquerade in the ‘Gangs of Lagos’ film.
