BEVERLY HILLS, December 20, (THEWILL) – Award-winning film maker, Obi Emelonye has said that the reason behind the delayed release of, ‘Badamosi: Portrait of a General’, a biopic on former Nigerian military Head of State, General Ibrahim Babangida, is because some very important personalities in Nigeria are jittery about the film.
The movie, written and directed by him, explores Babangida’s story from childhood up to his run as the Head of State. It also touches several key points in Nigeria’s history.
The prolific filmmaker said he knew when he took on the character of General Ibrahim Babangida for a film, that it would open a Pandora box of political, ethnic and historical sentiments and make some highly placed Nigerians uncomfortable.
Plans had been put in place for the movie to be released in cinemas last year but because of grumblings from some quarters, it was withdrawn for a less confrontational one, which streaming services offer.
“I think I underestimated the extent of the issue to which the movie would create. I have come to find out that you could be very objective in telling a story and still not please the world; it becomes more complex, when those people you did not please are in positions of influence because you will struggle to get your voice heard. The film is making some influential people very uncomfortable.
“While a number of them are interested in the film, they are seeking assurances that their involvement will not get them in the bad books of anybody. We are trying to provide such assurances and as soon as that is done, Badamasi will be released. The truth of the matter is that nothing can be hidden under the sun.
He said whatever is stopping the release of the film, will not be here forever.
“I implore my supporters to be patient and assure them that when it is finally released, it will be a historical and political event that will shake the system. I am sure that its success will open a new vista in the journey of biography film making in Nigeria, which I think is needed in the industry,” Emelonye said.
