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Addressing Gender-Based Violence Through Nollywood: 4 Films That Shine a Light

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Like other film industries, Nollywood has consistently served as a voice and catalyst for societal change. By addressing social issues, whether explicitly or implicitly, Nollywood has proven to be a powerful medium for speaking important conversations and inspiring change.

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This month began on a traffic note for women in Nigeria, following the shocking abduction and murder of Christianah Idowu, a University undergraduate. On September 4, 2024, the news of her kidnapping, murder, and burial in a shallow grave by the 23-year-old Ayomide Adeleye flooded the internet. Soon after another case surfaced, the death of 33-year-old Ugandan Olympic athlete Rebecca Cheptegei, who was set ablaze by her partner.

These tragedies remind Nigerians of similar cases, such as Ini Umoren, the job seeker kidnapped and killed in 2023 by Uduak Akpan a male University student, Deborah Yakubu, who was mobbed by Islamic fanatics in Sokoto in 2020, Augusta Osedion whose male lover was murdered, Best Nnanyereugo, also known as “Kilaboi, Justina Otuene who was murdered by her boyfriend, Damian Okoligwe, prominent gospel singer Osinachi Nwachukwu who died in a hospital in Abuja after she was allegedly beaten and kicked in the chest by her husband and manager, Peter Nwachukwu, Vera Uwaila ‘Uwa’ Omozuwa, a 20-year-old student at the University of Benin was raped and killed in a Church in Edo state, Bakarat Bello who was discovered raped and stabbed to death, her body laying lifeless behind her parents’ home in Ibadan, and Bamise Ayanwola, a tailor in Lagos was allegedly raped and murdered in by a bus driver Andrew Omonikoron, whose vehicle she had boarded on her way to visit family. The list goes on.

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Despite growing awareness and advocacy, online conversations about these killings often veer toward victim-blaming, while excusing or justifying the actions of the perpetrators. In a country where femicide is on the rise, it’s crucial to continue addressing these issues head-on.


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However, beyond its entertainment value, Nollywood has become a powerful tool for social commentary, addressing pressing issues affecting millions of Nigerians. Through compelling narratives and strong performances, filmmakers are contributing to the ongoing discourse on gender equality and women’s rights.

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Here are four Nollywood films that effectively highlight the harsh realities of gender-based violence, each offering a unique perspective on the struggle for justice and change.

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Directed by Stephanie Okereke-Linus this 2014 drama is based on true-life accounts, focusing on the impacts of child marriage. The film centers on the story of a 13-year-old girl, Halima, whose poor uneducated parents marry her off to Sani, a 60-year-old man who frequently rapes her in the “marriage.” Halima becomes pregnant and suffers Vesicovaginal Fistula (VVF) after child delivery. She begins to experience involuntary urination causing her to smell, and consequently, abandoned by her husband and discriminated against in her community. Zara, a medical doctor with a similar traumatic childhood, meets Halima and tries to help her and other young women and girls facing similar experiences.

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The film stars Zubaida Ibrahim Fagge, Stephanie Okereke, Liz Benson, William McNamara, Darwin Shaw, Paul Sambo, Olu Jacobs, Rahama Hassan, Hauwa Maina, Rekiya Ibrahim, Hakeem Hassan, Tijjani Faraga, Klint da Drunk, and Vineeta Pathak

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The movie was set in pre-Nigerian independence. When the country is about to gain its independence, many women are found murdered. A detective is assigned the responsibility to catch the murderer before Independence Day The film’s theme focuses on unraveling the story of the rapes and murders of women in Akote Town, in Ibadan, perpetrated by the only son of the Oba of Akote Town. The movie further explores the story of the prince, who himself was subject to sexual abuse at school, while highlighting the perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence, particularly those in positions of power and authority, walking away unpunished.

Written by Tunde Babalola, the film stars Sadiq Daba, Kayode Aderupoko, Demola Adedoyin, Kehinde Bankole, Kunle Afolayan, Fabian Adeoye Lojede, Kanayo O. Kanayo, Ibrahim Chatta, Bimbo Manuel, Femi Adebayo, Abiodun Aleja, Nick Rhys, Deola Sagoe, David Bailie, Colin David Reese, Lawrence Stubbings, Ifayemi Elebuibon, and Meg Otanwa

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This film tells the story of 3 three women living in the same compound, experiencing different forms of assault from the men around them.

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24-year-old Rolake Dabiri, who is amongst these women decides enough is enough as she speaks up and revolts against these men. These women are played by Damilare Kuku (Rolake), Toyin Abraham (Mama Olisa), and Sandra Okunzuwa (Ada Olisa). This film directed by Biodun Stephen sheds light on sexual abuse and violence against women to educate the public on its dangers and to encourage society to report perpetrators of the crime.

Other casts members are Jide Kosoko, Zubby Micheal, Deyemi Okolawon, Kachi Nnochiri, Kiki Omeili, Imoh Eboh, Etinosa Idemudia, Angel Unigwe, Eso Dike, Babarex, and Nini Mbonu.

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Produced by Desmond Ebuwa Ekunwe and Fisayo Ojabodu this short film follows a prolific figure, Azeezah Sama. Despite being loved by the public, she endures severe abuse from her controlling partner. He interrupts an important interview where she consequently has to put up a performance to cover up her situation. Available on Youtube and Directed by Tochi Onwubiko and Orobosa Ikponmwen, the film stars Nonso Ekemezie, Isoken Aruede, Bobby Ekpe, and Tomisin Osinubi.

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Lizzy Anjorin sets free as Kwara court dismisses criminal charges against her

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Nollywood actress, Chief Elizabeth Anjorin, aka Lizzy Anjorin, popularly known as Lizzy Anjorin, has received a clean bill of health after being cleared of all criminal allegations in a high-profile litigation involving her, Saheed Mosadoluwa, aka Ibile, Harmony Gardens and Estate Development Limited in Ilorin, Kwara State.

The case, which was filed as a direct criminal complaint, was heard at the Upper Area Court I in Ilorin, the capital of Kwara State.

However, things took a favourable turn for Anjorin as the state Attorney General stepped in, took over the case, and applied for a termination amid proceedings.

The presiding judge, Hon. Yunus Kayode, ruled in favour of the Attorney General’s request, which resulted in the case’s automatic dismissal.

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ALSO READ: Iyabo Ojo calls out actress Lizzy Anjorin on social media for cyberstalking

The ruling, which was handed down on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, read thus: “Upon a direct criminal complaint made by Muazu Baba Yusuf, Esq., dated February 26, 2025, and after listening to A. M. Abdulraheem, Esq., for the complainant and Prof. O. Y. Abdulhamid, Esq., with I. M. Adedo, Esq., Taofeeq Olateju, Esq., and Abdullahi, Esq., for the defendant.

“Having listened to the submission from the complainant counsel and that of the defendant and particularly the application of the Attorney General to take up this case and pray for termination of the case, on this premise, the direct complaint dated February 24, 2025, and the cross-complaint dated March 11, 2025, are hereby terminated and the defendants are hereby discharged.”

The judgment was given at Ilorin on Wednesday, March 12, 2025, under the seal of the court and the hand of the judge.

Lizzy Anjorin reacts to court ruling

ALSO READ: I am too disciplined to become a thief – Actress Lizzy Anjorin debunks reports


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Reacting to the judgement, the actress-cum-business woman clarified what led to the criminal accusations, noting that the complainant intended to lock her away in prison.

Anjorin, the Chief Executive Officer of California Paradise City, Ibeju Lekki, Lagos State, described the case as a cross-sue, adding that she and the complainant became defendants in the case before the ruling cleared her of all the criminal allegations.

“The case bordered on a land dispute, and it all happened in Lagos. But the complainant went ahead and filed a criminal suit against me in Ilorin, Kwara State, to lock my enemy away in prison. When I got there, I presented my evidence, cross-sued, and both of us became defendants.

“I was summoned on Friday based on his case and I showed up, but we counter-sued him and on Tuesday, they sent his summon but he didn’t show up and when they wanted to continue with the case we filed against him, I withdrew it and left him for God,” she said on Friday.

The Nollywood star expressed profound appreciation to her loyal fans and lawyers, who stood by her throughout the process, and to the Ilorin judicial system for its thoroughness in handling the matter.

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ALSO READ: Actress Lizzy Anjorin releases paternity test of child months after dedication in 10 cities in the United States

“I am thankful to my fans, and most especially my lawyers, for doing a good job. I also appreciate the judicial system in Ilorin. I appreciate the fact that they did a thorough investigation and also accepted my complaints and the evidence presented.

“The Kwara State Government, through its judiciary system, did not use their office and state to punish innocent people like me and for that, I am grateful. With all that people have been saying, my case proves that Ilorin is not how people paint it when it comes to their judiciary system.”


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He wants to cajole me – Asake reacts to reports of abandoning sick father

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Nigerian singer Ahmed Ololade, popularly known as Asake, has finally responded to reports that he abandoned his father after he fell ill.

Earlier in the week, Fatai Odunsi had publicly accused the singer of abandoning him in 2022 when a stroke hit him.

In a video that went viral on social media, Mr. Odunsi claimed the singer ignored his calls. He, therefore, appealed to the public for financial assistance.

In the video, Mr. Odunsi was accompanied by a man identified as Sonibare, who claimed to be his brother.

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ALSO READ: I need your help – Asake’s alleged father cries out over recent stroke

He said, “I am the father to Asake, who is singing. The last time I saw him was when this thing happened to me on March 29, 2022.

“He does not pick up my calls anytime I call him. Now I have become tired. I have been looking for this my brother and I recently met with him.”

The singer has now responded to the allegation, taking to social media on Friday with a cryptic message delivered in a Yoruba freestyle.

The former YBNL-signed singer came with his own allegation as he appeared to suggest his father was attempting to manipulate him despite his generosity.


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He sang, “You can’t please the world. Whatever you do, do it for God and always remember the day you’ll die and meet your God.

“My people, can you see? Even my father wants to cajole me. I used to press money for him, and I did it with one mind.

ALSO READ: Asake used to accept ₦700 rice, bottle of drink as performance fee – Yemi Elesho

“No one can quench my fire. God is the one that is taking me ahead in life.”

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C Flex – Another “falsetto merchant” or the real deal?

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Let’s talk about Chukwudum Umeevuruo, aka C Flex – a Nigerian kid who found his voice in church choir before taking his talents to the UK’s vibrant Afrofusion scene.

Like many African artists, this Anambra native cut his teeth singing praises before deciding to chase the secular bag.

His 2017 debut “Ekeresimesi” wasn’t just some random Christmas jingle; it was a cultural reset for anyone tired of hearing about snowflakes and reindeer when their Christmas experience was more about new clothes and jollof rice.

Discography:

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The man hasn’t exactly flooded the market, but what he’s dropped shows promise:

  • “Ekeresimesi” (2017) – His debut that gave Christmas the African narrative it deserves

  • “Supernova” and “Hustle” (2020) – Pandemic releases when we were all locked down and desperate for vibes

  • “Link Up” ft. ML. Kay (2021) – A collab that showed he plays well with others

  • “Mi Amor EP” (2021) – Love songs that might actually make you risk it all

  • “Hypocrisy” (2022) – When he decided to get political and call out our collective BS

  • “Loner” (2024) – His latest jam where he basically says, “leave me alone, I’m vibing”

Influences:

You can hear the Sunday service in C Flex’s melodies – that church training never really leaves. But he’s not giving us gospel; he’s serving a cocktail of Nigerian rhythms, UK Afroswing swagger, and that pan-African Amapiano bounce we can’t get enough of lately.

The man’s a cultural sponge, absorbing sounds from Lagos to London and wringing them out into something distinctly his own.

Style and Penmanship Analysis:


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Is C Flex another “falsetto merchant” riding the wave? Not quite. Unlike the flood of male vocalists currently drowning us in head voice gymnastics, C Flex isn’t trying to make you pregnant through your earbuds.

His pen game moves between cultural storytelling (“Ekeresimesi”), social commentary (“Hypocrisy”), and that introspective vibe on “Loner” that hits different when you’re actually tired of people.

His lyrics won’t have you reaching for a dictionary, but they’ll have you nodding in agreement.

Artistic Identity and Brand Coherence:

In an era where everyone’s trying to be the next Wizkid or Burna, C Flex is refreshingly… himself. He’s not forcing the “African Giant” narrative or the “Starboy” aesthetic. Instead, he’s creating a lane as the thoughtful storyteller who can make you dance and think simultaneously.

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His brand isn’t flashy watches and designer labels; it’s authentic stories delivered with conviction. The long gaps between releases aren’t helping his momentum, though. In this TikTok era, you blink and people forget your name.

Engagement and Reception:

C Flex isn’t breaking streaming records like CKay’s “Love Nwantinti” just yet, but he’s building something potentially more valuable – a fanbase that actually listens to his message.

His “Mi Amor EP” showed he can capture hearts, while “Loner” suggests he’s not afraid to get vulnerable when everyone else is flexing. In a market saturated with party anthems, his emotional authenticity stands out.

Comparative Standing in Contemporary Afrobeats:

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Let’s keep it a buck – C Flex isn’t in the same conversation as Rema, Asake, or Tems right now. Those cats are already eating at the global table while C Flex is still preparing his meal.

But not everyone needs to blow up overnight. Remember Burna Boy before “African Giant”? Exactly. C Flex’s UK position gives him a unique perspective that could eventually become his superpower in this increasingly global genre.

Conclusion: Potential and Positioning:

Is C Flex worth your attention? If you’re tired of cookie-cutter afrobeats and want something with a bit more soul and substance, absolutely.

He’s not going to dominate your TikTok feed tomorrow, but he’s building the foundation for something potentially more lasting. What he needs now is consistency, visual aesthetics that match his sonic quality, and the right collaborations to amplify his voice.

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Keep him on your radar – not every star explodes; some just steadily rise until you can’t ignore their light.

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