By Peter Dansu In a dramatic turn of events, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has reportedly cancelled the classification ...
By Peter Dansu
In a dramatic turn of events, the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has reportedly cancelled the classification of the controversial film “Badagry: I Gree, I Bad” following a wave of public outrage from stakeholders and cultural advocates in Badagry. A prominent film producer and former Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Mr. Tunde Alabi-Hundeyin, revealed this, according to a report by CityMood Badagry.
The film, produced by Ghana-based Nigerian filmmaker Destiny Omon, had stirred intense backlash over its title, which many argued misrepresents the historic town of Badagry—a community known for its peaceful heritage, rich culture, and status as a major tourism hub in Nigeria.
Among the most vocal critics is veteran filmmaker and former Chairman of Badagry Local Government, Mr. Tunde Alabi-Hundeyin, popularly known as Dudu. In a public statement, Hundeyin described the film’s title as a “gross mischaracterization” of Badagry’s identity. He revealed that he personally contacted the Director-General of the NFVCB, Dr. Shaibu Husseini, who confirmed that the board had received a petition signed by nine concerned individuals from Badagry, formally opposing the film's release under the current title.
According to Hundeyin, the DG informed him that the board had cancelled the film's classification, which was initially scheduled for July 4, and that the process would not move forward unless the title was changed. However, the board has not issued an official public statement confirming this decision.
The film is said to explore themes of crime, including kidnapping and drug abuse. While the producer has defended the title, claiming it was shot in Badagry, that assertion has not been independently verified.
The controversy has rekindled conversations about cultural sensitivity and the portrayal of Nigerian communities in the media. Many residents and advocates argue that films like this perpetuate negative stereotypes and damage the image of historically significant towns. Hundeyin likened the situation to the earlier uproar over “Gangs of Lagos,” which was widely condemned for its depiction of the revered Eyo masquerade.
Reacting to the situation, the Ogu General Assembly (OGA)—a prominent socio-cultural group representing the Ogu people of Badagry—issued a strong statement urging filmmakers to engage with communities and portray them responsibly.
Hon. Sesi Oluwaseun Whingan, the Member representing Badagry Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, also condemned the film, calling it an insult to the values and legacy of the Badagry people. He emphasized that the town should be celebrated for its role in Nigeria’s history and not reduced to a backdrop for crime-centered narratives.
As of the time of this report, it remains unclear whether the film’s planned premiere in Benin City will still go ahead or if the producer will consider revising the title in response to the backlash.
The situation continues to draw national attention as Nigerians debate the balance between artistic freedom and cultural respect.
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