LP candidate in last Governorship election in Lagos, Rhodes-Vivour
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Star actress, Fathia Williams, has addressed the criticism of her upcoming movie on legendary Madam Tinubu.
While Nollywood has, in recent times, welcomed biopics such as Ayinla Omowura, Basorun Gaa and Lisabi, the Labour Party governorship candidate in Lagos State during 2023 election, Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour; and popular critic, David Hundeyin, among some other people, had condemned her biopic for the woman they see as anti-heroine.
In a statement on X, titled, “My response to the reactions trailing my upcoming movie, Efunroye Tinubu,” she, however, noted that her reaction was due to the various “misconceptions” surrounding the movie.
Her tweet read, among others, “With over six million views on my post, I do not take your support for granted—your interest and feedback are truly appreciated. However, the passion and emotions surrounding this project (especially on Twitter), while inspiring, have led to some misconceptions that I would like to clarify.
Williams
“Firstly, “Efunroye: The Unicorn” is not a promotional piece intended to glorify or whitewash a divisive historical figure like Madam Efunroye Tinubu, nor does it carry any political intent or affiliation. This film is purely a work of artistic interpretation and storytelling. As a filmmaker, my goal is to bring Nigerian stories to life on screen, and this is no exception.
“The movie is an attempt to present Madam Tinubu’s life in a balanced and nuanced way, showcasing her triumphs, challenges, and the complex legacy she left behind. It is not an effort to reshape or glorify the historical narrative. Like all historical figures, Madam Tinubu’s story is layered, and this film aims to capture both her strengths and controversies.
”I want to emphasize that “Efunroye: The Unicorn” is first and foremost a creative expression meant to entertain, educate, and spark thoughtful conversations. It is not a documentary or a political statement. As with any artistic work, it draws from history but also takes creative liberties to make the story more engaging for modern audiences. I believe that through this film, we can explore important parts of our history, but it is important to understand that it remains a work of fiction inspired by real events.”
Meawnhile, Rhodes-Vivour, wrote, “The Yoruba were the biggest victims of Madam Tinubu’s kidnapping, human trafficking and enslavement network. In the British attempt to end human trafficking and her ruthless opposition to it, she was exiled from Lagos. When Nigerians do DNA test like 23 and me, etc., they will see the number of unknown relatives they have scattered all across the Americas and the West Indies. They will realise how close and how deep this chapter of our history is. It is unfortunate that Nigerians are still dealing with a ruthless elite that amass their fortune at the detriment of their people.”
