L-R: Eniola Ajao, Tobi, Makinde, Dele Odule (back), Farooq Oreagba, Owobo Ogunde, and Executive Producer Mrs. Olawumi Fajemirokun, during the premiere of the movie, “Iwe Ala” at Filmhouse cinema, Lekki Lagos, on Thursday
Lagos witnessed a rich blend of culture, fashion and cinematic storytelling on Thursday as ÌWÉ ÀLÀ (An Ojúdẹ Ọba Story) premiered in grand style at Filmhouse Cinemas Lekki, drawing filmmakers, cultural enthusiasts and invited guests from across the industry.
The event, which began with a red carpet reception at 7:00pm, was marked by elegance and cultural pride as guests arrived in “aso oke” (native attire) in line with the dress code. The cinema environment was transformed into a celebration of Yoruba heritage, with photography, fashion statements, and vibrant conversations setting the tone for the night.
The Eexecutive Producer, Yeye Olawumi Fajemirokun, a businesswoman and cultural advocate whose work in film and philanthropy continues to gain recognition within and outside Nigeria was on hand to welcome the guests. Her involvement in the project reflects a growing commitment to telling indigenous stories on global platforms.
Speaking in at the premiere, she said the film was inspired by a desire to explore a deeper narrative of the annual Ojude Oba Festival beyond the widely seen public celebration enjoyed by millions of people across the globe each year.
She noted that while the festival is widely known for its colour and grandeur, there are many untold stories behind the scenes, particularly the contribution of tailors and artisans whose work sustains the visual identity of the celebration.
According to her, “What people usually see is the glamour of the day, but there is a lot that happens behind the scenes. We wanted to bring out those stories so that people can understand the effort and creativity that goes into Ojude Oba, especially from the tailors who work tirelessly to make the festival what it is.”
She further described the film as an extension of her earlier success with Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story, adding that ÌWÉ ÀLÀ represents a continuation of her vision to project indigenous narratives to wider audiences. She disclosed that early reception to the project has been encouraging, with growing interest from audiences within Nigeria and the diaspora.
“People are already asking when it will be released. We are hopeful for a strong national run and international reach because indigenous stories like this deserve to be seen globally,” she said.
On the issue of institutional support, she expressed optimism that government and cultural bodies would increasingly recognise and support such projects. She referenced positive feedback from notable figures, including former President Olusegun Obasanjo, who she said expressed appreciation for the cultural presentation of the story.
The executive producer emphasized that independent filmmakers are often driven by passion rather than influence, stressing the importance of support structures that can elevate Nigerian stories to global standards.
“We are independent storytellers with important stories to tell. We hope for stronger collaboration and support from the government and stakeholders because these stories are a true reflection of our culture and identity,” she added.
The premiere itself stood out as a cultural showcase, merging cinema with heritage in a way that highlighted the richness of Yoruba tradition.
The premiere also attracted a host of notable personalities and cultural figures who stormed the venue in grand style. Among the distinguished guests were Olori Adewunmi Adeyeye, Olori Oni Ile Ife, veteran actor Dele Odule, Farooq Oreagba, and several other dignitaries from the entertainment and cultural sectors, who all came out in support of the production.
The cast of ÌWÉ ÀLÀ (An Ojúdẹ Ọba Story) features a rich lineup of talented actors, including Owobo Ogunde, Mercy Aigbe, Dele Odule, Demola Adedoyin, Tobi Makinde, Eniola Ajao, Farooq Oreagba, Aishat Isiaka, and Tolu Otebiyi, who brought the story to life through compelling performances that reflect the richness of Yoruba culture and tradition.
The film is scheduled to begin screening in cinemas nationwide from Friday, June 12, offering audiences an opportunity to experience the Ojude Oba story on the big screen for the very first time.
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