By Peter Dansu The Ogu General Assembly (OGA), the apex socio-cultural body representing the Ogu people of Nigeria, has raised strong obje...
By Peter Dansu
The Ogu General Assembly (OGA), the apex socio-cultural body representing the Ogu people of Nigeria, has raised strong objections to an upcoming Nollywood film titled “Badagry: I Bad, I Gree,” calling for its immediate cancellation and removal from all promotional platforms.
In a strongly worded press statement signed by Convener Prof. Jendele Hungbo and Secretary Mr. Mewhenu Hosu, the Assembly described the film’s title and its associated visuals as “a grave misrepresentation” of the Ogu people and their historical homeland, Badagry.
The film, produced by Destiny Austine Omon and directed by Davison Izegaegbe under Akogun Multimedia Production, is set for release on July 4, 2025. But its title and poster materials—featuring images of firearms and characters exuding gangster-like demeanors—have sparked alarm within the Ogu community, who view them as an affront to the city’s peaceful heritage and cultural pride.
“We contend that the title of the film already depicts our much-cherished cultural hometown, the historical city of Badagry, and indeed, the Ogu people, in a very negative light,” the statement read. “The title 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 Assembly fears the film will fuel damaging stereotypes, presenting Badagry as a hotbed of criminality, cultism, and violence—narratives that, they insist, have no basis in the lived reality of the community.
“Badagry is a land known for its rich culture, peaceful disposition, and historical significance. We do not want our name and people to be unfairly tainted in the eyes of Nigerians and the global community,” Prof. Hungbo emphasized.
The OGA is not only demanding a total halt to the film’s release but also wants all existing promotional content—particularly those shared widely on social media—to be pulled down immediately. The group expressed dismay at the extensive publicity already done, especially on the producer’s Facebook page, describing it as “ignominious branding.”
“We urge the filmmakers to reconsider the release and promotional materials, ensuring they respectfully and accurately portray Badagry and the Ogu people. By working together, we can promote cultural understanding and sensitivity,” the Assembly appealed.
However, the statement also carried a stern warning: should the filmmakers ignore these concerns, the Ogu General Assembly is prepared to explore all legal and communal means to protect the image, dignity, and interests of their people.
This intervention comes amid growing debates about how Nollywood, Nigeria’s vibrant film industry, portrays minority communities and historical towns. For the Ogu people, this isn’t just about a title—it’s about legacy, representation, and the power of storytelling to either uplift or mischaracterize.
As the July 4 release date draws near, all eyes are now on the filmmakers and the Lagos State Film and Video Censors Board to see whether this cultural outcry will lead to a pause—or spark a broader national conversation on ethics and identity in entertainment.
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