Nigerian rapper Ogunmefun Olanrewaju, also known as Vector is the latest person to criticize the depiction of Eyo, in the film “Gangs of Lagos” following that of chief Adebola Dosunmu, the Akinsiku of Lagos.
The rapper posted a short video on his Instagram account educating Nigerians and Lagosians of what Eyo truly means and not what the film portrayed it to look like.
Vector said “I was born at the Onikan health centre, lafiaji, Lagos island and all i have seen during the Eyo festival every time they’re out is, they stop by at ours and prayed wishing prosperity for my family.
“As teenagers, I’ve had friends (underneath the regalia )chase me with the staff ( Opambata ) because I knew they would take advantage and show me shege lol.
“My idea of what the Bajulaiye is is totally different from murderous criminality.
“Going by what the term gang means, it is disrespectful to define the Eyo in the same light.”
“The movie depicts criminal activities in Lagos Island, and the Eyo Masquerade was used as part of the story’s elements.”
Akinsiku of Lagos had first warned the cast of the movie that “If anything happens to anyone they will carry their cross”.
Vector, however, said he wishes prosperity to those who have laboured and reminds us that “rejoicing with you is rejoicing with myself.”
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