The Ogu General Assembly (OGA), the apex body representing the Ogu people of Nigerian descent, has vehemently kicked against an upcoming film titled “Badagry: I Bad I Gree”, describing the movie as a blatant misrepresentation of Badagry and the Ogu identity.
Penpushing reports that the film, produced by Akogun Multimedia Production and directed by Davison Izeaghegbe, with Destiny Austine Omon as Producer/Assistant Director, features a cast that includes Alex Osifo, Yemi Blaq, and Jude Orhorha, among others is scheduled for release on July 4, 2025.
The steering committee meeting of apex body of the Ogun, however, in a statement signed by Prof Jendele Hungbo(convener) and the secretary Mr Hosu Mewhenu expressed deep concern over the said movie
Penpushing further reports that the statement argued that both the title and visuals of the film project a narrative that is dishonourable and deeply offensive to the peaceful and culturally rich image of Badagry and its people.
‘The title already depicts our much-cherished cultural hometown, the historical city of Badagry, and indeed, the Ogu people, in a very negative light. It disparages not just our land as a collective patrimony, but also misrepresents us as an ethnic nationality and hurts the sensibilities of our people very badly’, the statement said
‘The OGA particularly condemned the use of guns, cult imagery, and gangster aesthetics portrayed in the film poster, which it says falsely associates Badagry with violence and criminality, an identity the community strongly rejects’.
“We do not in any way want our land and our people to be depicted in this dishonourable light in popular culture and in the popular imaginations of Nigerians and the world at large,” the group declared.
‘The association is demanding that the film’s release be halted immediately and indefinitely, with all related publicity materials removed from public platforms. It also warned of possible legal and communal action should the filmmakers fail to comply’, the statement added.
Penpushing also reports that the statement said the premiere of the movie billed to take place at Festival Hall, Edo State Government House, Benin City, and is said to be strictly by invitation, is aimed to disparage the Ogu people.
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