Connect with us

Uncategorized

The Delivery Boy is a bold, timely and important film – Toni Kan

Published

on

Movie title: The Delivery Boy
Starring: Jamal Ibrahim, Jemima Osunde, Charles Etubiebi, Jude Chukwuka, Chris Iheuwa and Kehinde Fasuyi
Director: Adekunle Nodash Adejuyigbe
Year of release: 2019

The trope of the Mephistophelian criminal mastermind is a well-worn one from the eponymous Mephistopheles to Iago as instigator in Shakespeare’s Othello and Fagin in Dicken’s Oliver Twist.
The young and the gullible have always been cannon fodder for men of evil and Amir aka Joseph played by Jamal Ibrahim, is no different.
Sold from an orphanage to Mallam Sadan, a muslim scholar and leader, Amir leaves the orphanage to become the older man’s play thing from where he is then sent to an a camp for young Islamic “scholars.”
His life takes a strange turn as he becomes a dagger-for-hire eking out a precarious existence on the streets of an unnamed city and carrying out killings on the orders of his master.
By the time The Delivery Boy opens, Amir has come to the realization that he must make a change and the time has come. The first word out of his mouth is Go be, Hausa for Tomorrow.
Tomorrow things will change, Amir promises himself as he begins to put his plans into action but best laid plans can unravel quickly.
The Delivery Boy, which won Best Nigerian Film at AFRIFF 2018, tells a story that appears to have been torn out of yesterday’s newspaper head line. There is a visceral urgency to the narrative which confers an almost non-fictional mien on it, as if we are watching a documentary that explores what the life of young men caught in the claws of fundamentalist Islam is all about.
It also helps that much of the dialogue is in Hausa and pidgin which is a clear nod to the streets and the region most prone to fundamentalist ideology and violence.
Amir is damaged goods. Sexually abused and forced to become who he is not, the young man has lived many lives beyond his age. He is angry, confused, conflicted and ready to explode, no puns intended.
This is a film with a dark theme and that darkness is evoked all through. The film is never fully light or fully dark which is understandable since the whole action takes place between dusk and dawn but the “darkness’ hints at more than time, it is evocative of Amir’s tortured soul. Nodash as Director of Photography manages to evoke Amir’s interior landscape through the use of lights and light effects. There is a particularly beautiful shot where Amir is silhouetted against the door of the orphanage.
As his path collides with that of a prostitute, Nkem, played by Jemima Osunde, the plot changes gear, becoming a vehicle for telling the story of two survivors preyed upon by father figures; two people from disparate sides of the track who have to forge an unlikely alliance. They are united only by their rage and desire to destroy one in order to save another.
But Amir is not a murderous villain. He is an avenging angel intent on righting wrongs and working with Nkem they make a formidable team but it is an alliance lubricated with blood. People die and lives are ruined but all is fair in love and war.
Nodash has a deft touch, and there is an urgency to the proceedings even though the story proceeds at a very sedate pace. His use of lights and shadows provides the film with a dreamlike and introspective aspect. This interplay of light and shadows is important too in masking actions and intentions because this is a film full of dissembling, one in which things are never what they seem.
But at the heart of The Delivery Boy are urgent social and existential questions. How far can we go to protect our secret shame? How come those who speak about paradise and the after-life make a cushy home for themselves here? But the biggest question is where does evil come from and how do we allow ourselves to become willing incubators of evil from Mallam Sadan to Ofili, Auntie Dorcas to Nkem’s uncle.
Watching Mallam Sadan, one sees a teacher and a leader while a consideration of his beautiful home throws into stark relief the poverty and deprivation of Amir and Kazeem’s digs. The contrast brings to mind Fela Kuti’s lyrics: Archbishop na milki/Pope na enjoyment/Imam na Gbaladun.
The unequal yoking of Amir/Kazeem/Alhaji Sadan hints at a dysfunctional dynamic at the heart of fundamentalism one that brings to mind the movie, The Mumbai Siege, which is based on the four days of terror visited by young Pakistani fundamentalists on a luxurious hotel in Mumbai. There is that same conflicted approach and indecisiveness as the young drug addicted terrorists are given orders from across the border by an older man communicating via mobile phone.
The Delivery Boy is not your usual Nollywood fare, so if you are looking for cheap laughs, go watch something else. But it is ironic that the real moment of levity is provided as a dig at Nollywood and its warped celebrity culture.
When Amir accosts Sister Dorcas at Little Saints Chapel and Orphanage she tries to explain away why she has to do what she does – “If you had to give one of your children to the devil in order to save the rest, won’t you do it? I feed 50 children with food that is barely enough for 20. Where do you think the money comes from or do you think it is the indomie and bournvita celebrities bring that runs this place?”
But it is also at the orphanage that the film commits a continuity error. The machete Amir grabs from the mai guard is not the same one he uses to attack him even though it all happens in a split second. But mis-steps aside, Nodash has delivered an important and timely film.
In 2006, five years after the 9/11 terrorist attack Paul Greengrass, best known for his Bourne movies released his critically acclaimed film United 93. While many praised it for its psychological depth and authenticity others panned it for coming out “too soon” after the tragedy.
With the insurgency raging in Nigeria’s North East with huge human and material costs one wonders when we shall begin to mine the devastation in our books and movies. Nodash has made a bold move with The Delivery Boy and love it or hate it, he has opened a very important conversation that we all need to have.

Continue Reading
Advertisement

Uncategorized

Aliu Gafar delivers stellar performance as Esusu in Femi Adebayo’s Seven Doors

Published

on

By

 

By Rtn. Victor Ojelabi

The much-anticipated movie series Seven Doors by Femi Adebayo has finally premiered, currently showing on Netflix, captivating audiences with its intricate storytelling and compelling characters.

The movie begins with a haunting scene of seven women under a mysterious spell leaping to their deaths from a waterfall, setting the tone for a gripping tale that unravels in Ilara Kingdom.

The series explores various societal issues, including corruption, greed, gluttony, family values, malicious conspiracies, and the delicate balance of law and order.

Central to its plot is the calamitous fate of Oba Adedunjoye, the Onilara of Ilara, whose failure to perform traditional rites—symbolised by knocking on seven doors—unleashes devastating consequences on his kingdom.

At the heart of this chaos is Esusu, a malevolent and exiled villain whose return wreaks havoc.

Esusu, a ni ohun t’Eledumare o ni.
Eledumare o ni ika, ika ni Esusu

The character of Esusu, pivotal to the story’s depth, is masterfully brought to life by Aliu Gafar.

Gafar’s first appearance, late in Episode 2, immediately shifts the narrative, introducing a chilling force that spares no one, not even the royal family. His commanding portrayal encapsulates the essence of Esusu, a man whose wickedness defies comprehension.

The backstory reveals Esusu’s sinister pact with Ọba Adejuwọn, an ancestor of Adedunjoye.

Desperation led Adejuwon to seek Esusu’s help to evade death—a move that came at an unthinkable cost, forgetting that bi alọ ba lọ, abọ nbọ (a pendulum that swings to is still coming to swing fro).

Esusu’s return demanded not only royal treatment but the freedom to live as he pleased, challenging the very fabric of the kingdom.

Gafar embodies this complex character with remarkable precision, delivering a performance that is both chilling and unforgettable.

With almost two decades in Nollywood, Aliu Gafar has solidified his reputation as a versatile and dedicated actor.

His extensive filmography includes acclaimed productions such as Jagun Jagun, Anikulapo, Iyalode, Eefin, and Omo Ajele.

His role in Seven Doors further cements his legacy as a master of his craft, showcasing his ability to seamlessly portray multifaceted characters.

The Yoruba actor has also garnered accolades for his work, including the Best Actor award at the Dallas International Yoruba Movies Awards for his role in Peregun.

His commitment to the industry and his talent for captivating performances continue to make him a force to be reckoned with in Nollywood.

In Seven Doors, Gafar’s nuanced performance as Esusu elevates the series, demonstrating his ability to command attention and bring depth to a complex narrative.

His contribution to the Nigerian film industry remains invaluable, and his portrayal of Esusu is a testament to his enduring excellence.

Continue Reading

Uncategorized

Ogun State Prominent Monarchs, Business Tycoons, Others Honor Olusho Agba At The Confession 2024

Published

on

By

 

The Olusho Agba’s confession 2024 attracted more dignitaries as three respected monarchs in Ogun honour the event by physical appearance, alongside side most prominent CEOs in Ogun.

 

The royal fathers present at the laudable event held at Continental Suits in Abeokuta include HRM Oba Oyabanji Adetunji (Oloja Of Oja Odan) HRM Oba Buhari Makinde (Oniwoye of Iwoye Land) HRM. Oba Lukmon Kuoye (Olu of Imasayi).

 

Also Chief Executive Officer of IBD Foundation, Dr. Mrs. Lara Dende, the Chief Executive Officer of Pelican Valley Nigeria Limited Amb. Dr Tunde Adeyemo and CEO of Zolakaz Oil and Gas Alh. Sanni Azeez was also present at the event.

 

The Confession 2024 features a series of content creators, comedians, singers and dancers, and artists of different fields such as Dr Smile, Hafeez Oyetoro (Simply Saka), Woli 3310, Chukwuka Jude, Babalegba

Biola Adekunle, Femi Obimodede, Ishau Abidemi, and many more.

 

Below are some pictures from the event…

Continue Reading

Uncategorized

Wife drags Ex-UBA Top Shot, Samuel Eziafa Adikamkwu to court over abandonment of family, infidelity …….Petitions IGP over threat to life

Published

on

By

 

Federal Capital Territory High Court sitting in Gudu District and presided over by Justice M. Osho-Adebiyi, on Wednesday adjourned to January 19, 2025 a divorce case instituted by Mrs. Loretta Adikamkwu against her husband, Samuel Eziafa Adikamkwu, a former top official of the United Bank for Africa (UBA).

 

The mother of four, Mrs. Adikamkwu has dragged her husband of over 31 years to court for divorce over abandonment of the family for more than four years and alleged infidelity.

 

According to court document seen by our reporter with Suit number PET/073/2023, Mrs. Adikamkwu alleged that her husband packed out of their matrimonial home at Recreation Drive, Cooperative Villas, Badore, Ajah, Lagos and removed almost all his belongings therefrom (which included personal chattels, clothing and six vehicles of assorted brands) leaving behind the petitioner only vehicle (a Toyota land Cruiser) he gave to her some years back.

 

 

She further alleged that Mr. Adikamkwu withdrew all financial support and upkeep to the family, prompting her to desperately begin to dispose of all her belongings, in order to feed herself, the children and meet urgent Sundry costs, arising from the running of the home.

 

She also alleged in Paragraph 6(c) of her petition that after her husband abandoned his family, he was said to have been cohabiting with a lady called Miss Stella Umejuru with whom he regularly travels outside Lagos for business.

 

Mrs. Adikamkwu declared that her husband, who was formerly a Lecturer at Bendel State University, (now Ambrose Alli University), Ekpoma before Ndidi Elumelu, his friend, facilitated his employment by the United Bank for Africa (UBA), has no reason whatsoever not to cater for his family as he is now engaged in booming property business after leaving the bank.

 

 

 

According to the lady, who is a graduate of Bendel State University, she would have been financially independent and be in position to cater for herself and the children but for her husband who stopped her from working several years ago.

 

She stressed that because of the financial difficulties she was facing with her children she was compelled to sell the Toyota land Cruiser which her husband gave to her some years back to maintain the house that was dilapidating, settle numerous bills, including electricity and other sundry expenses.

 

The lady lamented that her husband got furious when he heard she had sold the car and he succeeded in retrieving the vehicle from a car dealer and the issue is now a subject of police investigation as some unknown persons have been stalking her and threatening her life since the family feud erupted.

 

 

However, the Respondent vehemently denies the averments contained in paragraph 6(c) of the petition and states that he does not know, neither is he acquainted with anybody ( lady) called Miss Stella Umejuru, and denies that he lives or travels with either the said lady or any lady at all.

 

The Respondent also denied the assertions contained in paragraph 6(d) of the petition and denied that he has committed adultery or that he has deserted the petitioner.

 

He admitted he is no longer living in the family house in Lagos as he had to “temporally relocate to Abuja when he secured a Contract Appointment with The Abuja Electricity Distribution Company Plc (AEDC) from 2021 to June, 2024.

 

Mr. Adikamkwu added an affidavit in response to his wife’s petition that he “is not aware that there is any debt burden on the family, but states that if there is any such debt, it is personal to the petitioner.”

 

 

Meanwhile, Mrs. Adikamkwu has petitioned the Inspector-General of Police over issues arising from the sale of the Toyota Land Cruiser which her husband gave her several years ago.

 

The letter to the IGP dated 4 October, 2024 titled “SOS-request for urgent intervention in a case of forgery, threat to lives and high handedness by officers of the Bar Beach Police Station, and Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Lagos” was written on her behalf by one of her Lawyers, Benjamin Nwaokenye, Esq of Integrity Partners law firm, Abuja.

 

Part of the letter reads: “We are solicitors to Mrs. Loretta Adikamkwu (hereinafter referred to as “Our client”, at whose behest, we act in this matter. We write to seek your urgent intervention in a looming threat to the life of our client, and a seeming case of forgery perpetrated against her, by Ojebola and Messrs, Sam Adikamkwu, Segun Ajide, Gbenga ASP Churchill of the Bar Beach Police Station, Lagos.

 

 

To put this matter in the right perspective, we are reliably informed by our aforesaid client that: (a) She was hitherto married to one Mr. Sam Adikamkwu , from whom she is now separated and now locked in a bitter judicial process, in a petition for divorce in PET/073/2023, at the High Court of the Federal Capital Territory, Gudu, Abuja).

 

“(b) The aforesaid Mr. Sam Adikamkwu, prior to the aforesaid divorce proceedings, vacated their Badore (Ajah) residence, where he hitherto resided with our client, and removed almost all his belongings therefrom (which included personal chattels, clothing and six vehicles of assorted brands) leaving behind our client, only vehicle (a Toyota land Cruiser) he gave to our client some years back, and strangely, a short machine gun, which was discovered in his wardrobe, in the course of cleaning the house, having forgotten to lock the bedroom door. ( see attached pictures)

 

The aforesaid Mr. Adikamkwu, it must be reiterated, withdrew all financial support and upkeep to our client and the family, prompting our client to desperately begin to dispose of all her belongings, in order to feed herself, the children and meet urgent Sundry costs, arising from the running of the home.

 

“In the course of disposing of her personal belongings, our client contacted one Mr. Segun Ajide, a car dealer, to assist in disposing off her Toyota land cruiser, and thereupon delivered to him, the Original custom and purchase papers of the vehicle, which the dealer demanded.

 

“Mr. Ajide sold our client’s vehicle, debited her with some colossal costs and remitted the balance to our client.

 

“Weeks afterwards, Mr. Ajide contacted our client to inform her that the vehicle had been impounded from the purchaser by Mr. Adikamkwu, with the help of one Mr. Churchill of the Bar Beach Police Station, and thereupon requested our client to intervene.

 

 

Our client insisted on intervening only if a formal invitation was sent to her, which the aforesaid persons could not procure, but resorted to harassing our client.

 

“Mr. Segun was later to inform our client that the vehicle had been released to Mr. Sam Adikamkwu by the Bar Beach Police Station

 

“Upon the request of our client to Mr. Segun Ajide for copies of all documents related to the sale, Mr. Ajide was evasive, until Mr. Adikamkwu filed his answer to our client’s petition wherein, it was discovered that several documents were forged by Mr. Ajide and the eventual purchaser Mr, Odebola, in the alleged sale without probable cause. .

 

“Prior to discovering the forgery, our client had been trailed by strange people, who at different times followed her home, and even laid siege on her place of resident at Recreation Estate Badore, forcing her to flee for her safety, to an unknown location.

 

 

Our client a few days back, received a WhatsApp invitation from the Nigeria Police Zone 2 Command, Onikan, Lagos, which directed her to meet up with someone, only whose phone numbers were stated in the invitation, but upon calling the line, our client was shocked, that the number was not allocated, causing more anxiety that, it must be a setup.

 

“Sir, our client is unable to carry on her normal business and live a normal life because, she has been living in fear for her safety, believing her life is endangered by the activities of Messrs. Adikamkwu, Ajide and Odebola, who from all indications, are behind her travails, having opted to brow’ beating her into retrieving the vehicle for them, and they are all men of means who can effectuate their threats.

 

“We are informed by our client also that, before the situation got to this dimension, Messrs. Ajide and Odebola, who from all indications, are behind her travails, had consistently called our client to know her where about, and had requested she came with them to see some policemen, without any arrest or invitation.

 

 

Sir, we solicit your esteemed indulgence to cause an investigation into this matter, to safeguard the life of our client from people who are determined to use their police friends, to intimidate and endanger our client, taking into consideration: (a) The forgeries executed by Messrs. Segun Ajide, Gbenga Ojebola and Sam Adikamkwu, using policemen from Bar Beach Police station, far removed from Ajah division of the police, in an attempt to cover same up, and revalidate their actions.

 

(b) The threat to our client’s life in the whole circumstance.

 

(d) The release of the vehicle By the Bar Beach police station, to Mr. Adikamkwu, without any probable cause.”

Continue Reading

Trending