The Trybe, an emerging Nigerian film production company, has announced the completion of its debut short film, ‘I Find the Defendant…,’ a tense courtroom drama set in the heart of Lagos.

Directed by Michael Ajayi, ‘I Find the Defendant…’ follows a Grammy– nominated Nigerian jazz star accused of rape by his girlfriend, sending his career into a free fall. In a tense Lagos courtroom; fame, power and consent collide as the nation struggles to defend the truth.

The film stars Belu Ogbuka, Empress Allen, Precious Onyekwelibe, Aaron Ayo Akinyemi, Benedict Emmanuel Tochukwu Odoh, Constance Nnenna Izuogu, Nisola Martins and Joy Ozichi – a cast that brings raw and compelling performances to one of the most pressing conversations of our time.

‘I Find the Defendant…’ is a bold, uncompromising body of work that examines how institutions, celebrity culture and public opinion influence and shape the pursuit of justice. The film arrives at a moment when consent, accountability and the power of fame have never been more urgent in Nigeria and across the world.

“IFTD is a Rashomon effect that explores a separate amount of the same incident: is a young woman sexually abused or is the man falsely accused?” says the Director, Ajayi.

The film has been submitted to major festivals and is being prepared for submission to international festivals with news of screenings and other announcements to follow.

The Trybe is a film production company passionate about telling authentic African stories. They aim to tell stories that spark conversation, question the norm and overall provide premium entertainment. ‘I Find the Defendant…’ is their debut short film. Ninety-five per cent of members are from Ebonylife Creative Academy 2025 third intake.