By Bilesanmi Abayomi
The Gang of Lagos” movie has drawn condemnation from the King Kosoko Royal Family and the Oloja Chieftaincy Family of Lagos. The families have condemned the portrayal of Adamu Orisa and Eyo as gun-wielding and violent deities, in a way that does not depict the true history and spirit behind Eyo Play. In a statement by Prince Abiola Olojo-Kosoko, the family expressed their opposition to the gross misrepresentation of Lagos culture and heritage in the film.
The families are calling for the desecration of their culture to be addressed and have pledged to join hands with the entire people of Lagos to fight for justice through all legal and traditional means. The Aloworo of Eyo and all other elders in Lagos have been responding to the situation, with necessary steps being put together to address the issue.
Prince Kosoko clarified that Adamu Orisa is only staged to traditionally usher departed souls into the realm of the dead and not for social engagements. He also stated that Eyo has never been seen carrying a gun or machete, but instead carries Opambata and Aga, making it a special deity with reference point which Lagos State is known for.
The families are advocating for the constitution of a special agency of the government that would be saddled with the responsibility of overseeing the culture and tradition of the people. They also recommended that movie producers should be asked to bring a letter of clearance from traditional bodies in charge of such culture or tradition before releasing any movies that have to do with culture and tradition.
The families are not against the movie industry, but rather want producers to consult with the people in charge of such heritage to prevent further desecration of Lagos culture and heritage.
The King Kosoko Royal Family, Oloja Chieftaincy Family of Lagos, Condemn,Adamu Orisa Eyo, Movie