IRAPADA
(For Kunle Afolayan)
So, Irapada’s theme is not in the film
It is in the revolution you brought to our screen
When like the farmer ventilating rowdy crops
Like the mum locust-beaning the pot for the love of taste
Like the Brazilian coach rattling the field with samba rhymes, Kunle
You redefined the form for content’s sake.
When others still swam in the mud of hazy pictures
You boosted the story with the crystal lens
Figurine itself was a stepping stone
You teased the industry by swapping phones:
By the time October 1 heralded the CEO,
The world was ready for your premiere in the sky.
From Toronto to Cannes the world applauded
Chip off the stardom block,
AFRIF fondled you
AMAA endorsed with glee and plaques
Pride of the Nollywood Magic
You have raised the bar for the continent’s film.
– Akeem Lasisi
