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Gang of Lagos: Olusegun Runsewe Begs Lagos Govt, Lagosians to Forgive Infractions

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Director General of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), Otunba Segun Runsewe, has said that the uproar created by the production of a new film, ‘Gang Of Lagos’ calls for strategic rethinking on cultural related narratives by film makers in Nigeria in order to avoid public resentments and reactions.

Runsewe pleaded with the Lagos State Government and the good people of the state, to forgive the infractions contained in the flick, assuring to arrest such cultural insensitivity headlong.

According to him, Gang of Lagos had depicted the iconic Eyo masquerade as enabler of violence, drawing angry reactions from cultural groups in Lagos Island and from the state government which described it a misrepresentation of cultural ethos of Eyo masquerade and insulting to the tradition and history of Lagosians.

Runsewe, who doubles as President, World Craft Council, Africa Region, noted that Eyo masquerade is one of the key cultural tourism products, associated with the history of Lagos nay Nigerian culture, and advised film makers, to be well guided when producing for public consumption, films on Nigerian cultural history so as not to provoke tension and irritations across the country.

“Lagos State Government, for instance has invested and continues to champion the growth of the creative sector, targeting young persons for training in all aspects of filmmaking and production, with community theatre halls built at each its local geospace and even with JK Randle Yoruba Museum, where researches on Yoruba culture and tradition, can be learnt first-hand, so films with narratives on the ways of the life our people must trend on best acceptable and sensitive information profiling,” Runsewe admonished.

Though the world of creativity is said to hold no boundaries, Runsewe noted that when it comes to cultural narratives, careful measures, strategic profiling, dedicated investigation and requests to collaborate with custodians of national cultural and traditional institutions should be thoroughly considered and consulted.

“During the last National Festival of Arts (NAFEST) in Lagos, we at NCAC wrote to the Oba of Lagos, requesting the participation of the iconic Eyo masquerade. We were made to appreciate and understand that Eyo masquerade public appearance is guided by certain traditional ethics and procedure, so we expect our filmmakers to follow the same engagement route. Honestly, we at NCAC appreciate Nigerian film makers for the efforts to use such narratives, not only to contribute to national cultural tourism rebirth and acceptation, including its international cultural tourism value chain but we must advise that a cultural sensitivity context and content analysis should be part of both production and post production ecosystem,” Runsewe stated further.

The NCAC boss informed that a one day cultural conference, evaluating and focusing on all areas of cultural tourism diversity and sensitivity, will be held before the end of this month in Abuja by the apex cultural agency.

 

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Ojez Forum to Honor Guv’ Ken Calebs Olumese for His Impact on Nigerian Entertainment on Sunday

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Lagos is set for an unforgettable evening as Ken Calebs Olumese, the legendary “Guvnor” of Nigeria’s nightlife, receives a Special Recognition Award from The Forum by Ojez. The event, scheduled for Sunday, January 26, 2025, at O’jez Lounge, National Stadium, Surulere, Lagos, will celebrate his immense contributions to the Nigerian entertainment industry.

Fresh off his 80th birthday milestone, Olumese remains an icon in the country’s nightlife and hospitality scene. As the founder of Niteshift Coliseum, he created an exclusive club that hosted some of Nigeria’s most influential figures—from business moguls to top politicians and A-list entertainers. His visionary leadership transformed the nightclub experience, making it a hub for high-profile networking and premium entertainment.

According to Chief Joseph Odobeatu, Chairman/CEO of O’jez Entertainment, honoring Olumese is a well-deserved tribute to a man who redefined nightlife culture in Nigeria.

“We are excited to celebrate a pioneer who set the standard for premium entertainment in Nigeria. His legacy continues to inspire generations in the industry,” Odobeatu said.

The Forum by Ojez, known for honoring distinguished personalities, will feature electrifying live performances from top musicians and a DJ set to keep the energy high. It promises to be an evening of celebration, nostalgia, and entertainment. You’re all invited.

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Fathia Balogun In Gay Mood as son graduates with first class from UNILAG

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Nollywood actress Faithia Williams celebrates her son, Khalid Balogun, who graduates with a first-class degree from the University of Lagos (UNILAG).

Taking to Instagram to share the joyous moment, Faithia posted a photo of Khalid along with a heartfelt message expressing her overwhelming joy and gratitude.

The proud mother praised her son’s dedication and perseverance, attributing his academic success to hard work and resilience. She also offered prayers for his continued achievements, wishing him happiness and fulfillment as he embarks on a new chapter in life.

In her post, Faithia wrote:
“Hmm, I’m short of words… Alhamdulillah! Alhamdulillah! Alhamdulillah! My darling son, @khalidgram__, I’m overwhelmed with joy and gratitude as I celebrate your incredible achievement! You’ve worked tirelessly and persevered through the challenges, and today, you’ve emerged with a FIRST CLASS DEGREE from the University of Lagos’ Creative Department!

“Alhamdulillah, my heart is bursting with pride and love for you, my darling son! As you embark on this new journey, I ask that you continue to be guided by faith, courage, and determination.”

Faithia’s heartfelt post not only highlights her son’s academic excellence but also reflects her unwavering support as a mother.

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Seun Oloketuyi Appointed as Member of the Advisory Board for Kaduna International Film Festival

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I am pleased to announce my appointment as a member of the advisory board for the Kaduna International Film Festival. This honor is a recognition of my contributions to the growth and development of Nollywood and the African creative industry at large.

 

The Kaduna International Film Festival, established in 2018, has been a beacon of cultural promotion, tourism, youth empowerment, and peace-building in northern Nigeria. As the first international film festival in the region, it continues to bridge the gap in the northern film and creative industry, fostering inclusion and growth across the nation.

 

I am committed to leveraging my experience and expertise to further the festival’s mission of celebrating Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage and empowering young creatives. This opportunity serves as a platform to support the festival’s efforts in strengthening the film industry, both in Nigeria and beyond.

 

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the leadership of the Kaduna International Film Festival for entrusting me with this role. Together, we will continue to elevate the creative industry and showcase the best of Nigerian talent to the world.

 

Signed:

Seun Oloketuyi

Founder Best of Nollywood Awards Chairman Advisory board Bon Awards and Advisory Board Member,

Kaduna International Film Festival

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