Efunroye Osuntinubu’s Legacy – Faithia Williams Responds to Film Controversy
Nollywood filmmaker Faithia Williams Balogun has spoken out regarding the debates surrounding her latest film, Efunroye: The Unicorn. On Wednesday, October 23, 2024, the actress took to X to share news of the movie’s release. The official film poster, titled “Power, Trade, Legacy,” quickly drew reactions from online audiences. In her post, she stated, “She was more than a warrior, she was a ruler who rewrote history. ‘Efunroye: The Unicorn’ is coming to your screens soon! Are you ready?” The announcement immediately sparked conversations as the movie delves into the story of Efunroye Osuntinubu, born in 1805, a Yoruba aristocrat, merchant, and historical slave trader in Nigeria’s pre-colonial and colonial periods.
Known for leveraging her connections, Madam Tinubu established an extensive trade network with European merchants dealing in slaves, tobacco, salt, cotton, palm oil, coconut oil, and firearms, reportedly owning over 360 personal slaves.
Her substantial wealth allowed her to shape key economic and political decisions of her era. With a considerable security force composed of slaves, she held influence often reserved for political leaders of the colonial era.
To address the ensuing controversy, Faithia Williams shared her thoughts on social media. She clarified: “First and foremost, ‘Efunroye: The Unicorn’ is not a project meant to glorify or sanitize a divisive historical figure like Madam Efunroye Tinubu. Nor does it carry any political agenda or connections. This film is strictly a work of artistic storytelling. My aim as a filmmaker is to portray Nigerian stories authentically, and this one is no exception. The movie seeks to present Madam Tinubu’s life in a well-rounded way, highlighting her victories, struggles, and the complex legacy she left. It is not intended to reshape or elevate historical perspectives.”
She continued by emphasizing the layered nature of historical figures like Madam Tinubu and stated that the film aims to showcase both her admirable traits and her controversial aspects. Williams also highlighted the importance of engaging with history through film.
“As with any creative work, it takes inspiration from history while incorporating elements to make the story resonate with contemporary viewers. Through this film, I hope to explore significant facets of our heritage, though it’s crucial to view it as fiction inspired by historical events,” she concluded.