By Peter Dansu Leaders of two respected groups in Badagry, the Ogu General Assembly (OGA) and the Concern Badagry Citizens, on Tuesday app...
By Peter Dansu
Leaders of two respected groups in Badagry, the Ogu General Assembly (OGA) and the Concern Badagry Citizens, on Tuesday appeared before the Lagos State House of Assembly’s Committee on Tourism to defend their petitions against a controversial movie titled “Badagry: I Bad, I Gree.”
The film, which has sparked public outcry among Badagry indigenes, is accused of misrepresenting the peaceful and historic town as a violent and criminal place.
The petitioners led by Prof. Jendele Hungbo of OGA, and Prince Samuel Mawutin Ofade, told the committee that the film was not only misleading but dangerous. They argued that the movie—filled with scenes of drug peddling, hooliganism, and gun violence—paints Badagry in a terrible light, which is far from the town’s true identity as a peaceful, culturally rich, and tourism-driven community.
“We cannot sit back and allow Badagry’s name to be dragged into the mud,” Prince Ofade said passionately. “The film was not shot in Badagry, it has no connection to our community, yet the producer titled it ‘Badagry: I Bad, I Gree.’ That alone is insulting.”
The Lagos State House Committee on Tourism, chaired by Hon. Solomon Saanu Bonu, summoned the group over its petitions, along with relevant government agencies including the Lagos State Films and Video Censors Board, the Ministry of Tourism, and the Ministry of Justice, for a hearing
Also present at the session was Hon. Engr. Setonji David, Chief Whip of the Lagos Assembly and lawmaker representing Badagry Constituency II. Hon. David stood solidly with the petitioners, calling the film an “irresponsible misrepresentation” of a town globally known for its role in history and tourism. “I thank the groups for taking a noble, peaceful step. We’ll work with the committee to ensure this film does not damage Badagry’s image,” he said.
The petitioners demanded not just a title change but the complete removal of all references to Badagry in the movie. They feared that if the film is released as it is, it could undo years of effort to promote Badagry as a top tourist destination in Nigeria and Africa.
Mrs. Adebukola Agbaminoja, Executive Secretary of the Lagos State Films and Video Censors Board, said her office had already started working with the National Film and Video Censors Board to address the concerns. “We’ve taken steps. We agree that Badagry’s name must not be used inappropriately. We’ll ensure strict action is taken,” she assured.
Hon. Bonu, who is also the lawmaker representing Badagry Constituency I, expressed deep disappointment over the film and strongly pledged to stand by his people. “As a proud son of Badagry and Chairman of this committee, I won’t allow anyone to tarnish the image of my hometown,” he declared.
He added that the Assembly would not just stop at listening, but would move a formal motion on the floor of the House to ensure the producer is mandated to completely strip the movie of any connection to Badagry—both in title and content.
The groups also appreciated Speaker of the Lagos Assembly, Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, for responding swiftly to their petitions. They thanked Hon. Bonu and Hon. Setonji for standing with them, and the Lagos Censors Board for their prompt actions.
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