Vector, the rapper, has condemned the portrayal of the Eyo Masquerade as “murderous criminality” in the new blockbuster action film “Gangs of Lagos.”
‘Gangs of Lagos,’ directed by Jade Osiberu and produced by Kemi Lala Akindoju, was released on Amazon Prime Video on April 7.
The film has received positive reviews in many parts of the world, but it has also received harsh criticism in Lagos.
Vector joined the fray by posting a video on his Instagram page in which he educated people on the culture and traditions of the Eyo festival.
The rapper, born Olanrewaju Ogunmefun, described the film as “disrespectful” for referring to Eyo as a “gang”.
“I was born at the Onikan health centre, lafiaji, Lagos Island,” he said.
“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.
“Most of my friends like the Olugbanis who are direct Eyo Ologede gatekeepers are not gun shooting criminals using culture as a disguise.
“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.
“In light of what I’ve experienced about Eyo, I wish prosperity to the hands that labored. Although the movie would still be good without referring to Eyo as a (criminal) gang in Lagos.
“Eyo is not a criminal organization.”
The Isale Eko Descendants’ Union (IDU) had previously threatened legal action against the film’s producers.
The Lagos government has also condemned ‘Gangs of Lagos,’ claiming that the new blockbuster action film portrays the state’s culture in a derogatory light.
