• Three years after it premiered on Netflix, Ebonylife’s Oloture is making a comeback as a series on the streaming platform. In case you forgot why the first part had movie lovers in a chokehold, here’s a brief recap.

    The Kenneth Gyang-directed film took an approach to human trafficking and prostitution that mirrors Nigerian society. Omoni Oboli gave a great performance with her portrayal of a pimp — the angry bird look and constant smoking — and Sharon Ooja as an undercover journalist blending in perfectly with prostitutes was equally entertaining. Who can forget the brilliant cinematography that captured the typical Nigerian nightlife scene?

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    What’s new?

    On Thursday, January 4, Ebonylife’s Mo Abudu shared the first behind-the-scenes pictures from the series, which is set to premiere later in 2024. According to Abudu, the series is still in post-production. The photos give a glimpse of familiar characters making a comeback and some fresh faces. 

    Returning cast members 

    Omoni Oboli and Daniel Etim Effiong return as Alice and Tony.

    First look: Ebonylife’s “Oloture” Returns as a Netflix Series

    Sharon Ooja and Beverly Osu return as Oloture and Peju.

    First look: Ebonylife’s “Oloture” Returns as a Netflix Series

    Patrick Doyle returns as Sir Phillip Odanje.

    First look: Ebonylife’s “Oloture” Returns as a Netflix Series

    Ikechukwu returns as Chuks.

    First look: Ebonylife’s “Oloture” Returns as a Netflix Series

    Sambasa Nzeribe returns as Victor.

    First look: Ebonylife’s “Oloture” Returns as a Netflix Series

    Segun Arinze returns as Theo.

    Wofai Fada returns as Vanessa.

    New cast members

    Bucci Franklin

    Stan Nze

    Details about the story are still under wraps, but we know Oloture will continue her undercover investigative work as she tries to escape her captors. According to Abudu, Oloture’s journey will “take her through the hostile lands of Niger and Libya to the Mediterranean.” 

  • Are you in the mood for good ol’ slapstick comedy this holiday? Do you want to watch movies so ridiculous you’re moved to tweet the hilarity on X? Yoruba Nollywood is where the magic’s at. And that’s why we combed the movie archives to find these ones.

    From classics to new releases, these laid-back movies are what you need to put yourself in the perfect holiday season mood.

    “Christmas Visitor”

    When a Yoruba Nollywood movie has a title that tells 80% of the story, you know you’re in for a ride. In Christmas Visitor, an Igbo man (Lateef Adedimeji) visits a Yoruba family for the holidays, bringing with him a truckload of chaos.

    “Jenifa”

    Funke Akindele’s A Tribe Called Judah is currently showing at the cinemas, but if you’re in the mood for something far more lighthearted, her hit comedy franchise, Jenifa, works better — if you haven’t watched it a thousand times already.

    In the ribcracking film, Sulia, a village girl, seeks greener pastures in Lagos and moves with the wrong crowd. Each part of the franchise follows Sulia’s meteoric rise from a village champion to one of the movers and shakers of Lagos.

    “Holiday Visit”

    Is it really a Yoruba Nollywood production if it doesn’t have enough melodrama that has you asking “How did we get here?” and “What’s going on?” In the Allwell Ademola-directed Holiday Visit, a daughter brings her fiancé home for the holidays only to discover he once had a thing with her mum. God, abeg.

    “Ija”

    When a producer and director decide to go for a Mide Martins x Lola Idije x Wumi Toriola combo, you know they’re out to entertain viewers. Expect pure chaos in this movie where the actresses are on different sides of a family’s divide.

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    “Jelili”

    If you loved Home Alone as a kid but feel too old to rewatch it, Jelili should just about do it for you. It follows Femi Adebayo, who plays the titular character, Jelili, through his stupidly mischievous antics. This one will give you a good laugh.

    “Muniru ati Ambali”

    When two of the leading comic actors of Yoruba come together to act as grown fools, you’ll have to bow for the result. Listen, as a Nigerian in Nigeria, you don’t need Hollywood’s Home Alone or Problem Child to give you your dose of mischievous comedy when you have this Nollywood title.

    “Alakada”

    Toyin Abraham’s Christmas offering, Malaika, is currently showing in cinemas, but if you can’t stand queuing for tickets, you can make do with one of her best works to date, Alakada.

    The franchise follows the life of a student with an impoverished background, who tells lies to raise shoulders with her school’s rich kids.

  • Christmas is 23 days away, and that means you might have a brief break from capitalism. If you’re looking for Nollywood movies that’ll fill you with the Christmas cheer while you fill up on your Christmas meals, we’ve got you covered.

    Battle  on Bukka Street

    Image Credit: IMDb

    Think of every chaotic Christmas movie you’ve ever watched, and we promise you Battle on Buka Street might  rival them. From love, family rivalry, to an emotional third act, this film has all you and your family will need this Christmas.

    Wedding Party 1&2

    Image Credit: Wikipedia

    What’s Christmas without your loved ones annoying the living daylights out of you? But with this film, you’re not on the receiving end of the annoyance. Instead, you get to watch the leads get annoyed to shits by the people they hold dear.

    Lionheart

    Image Credit: TheLagosReview

    Think of Home Alone, with Kanayo .O. Kanayo’s Igwe Pascal as the thief, and Genevieve Nnaji’s Adaeze as Kevin. She’s been left home alone to save the family company from debt and a takeover by Igwe Pascal.

    Sugar Rush

    Image Credit: IMDb

    What’s Christmas without a little chaos , a ride in an invisible car and a hunk pouring water on himself in your kitchen? Your Christmas might not have all of that, but this film definitely does. 

    Obara’m

    Image Credit: IMDb

    What’s a Christmas movie without singing, dancing and a child running away from home?

    Palava!

    Image Credit: IMDb

    Granted, the lead family in this movie have a lot going on, but it’s a family movie with enough palava to keep you and your family glued to your seats.

    A Naija Christmas

    Image Credit: RottenTomatoes

    Think of what a traditional Christmas in Nigeria looks like — everyone running around trying to get things done, and your siblings getting on your last nerve. That’s what you’ll get with this movie. 

    Egg of Life

    Image Credit: Zikokomag

    What’s better than a movie about saving Christmas? A movie about badass women trekking the evil forest looking for ways to save a dying prince.

    Chief Daddy 1

    Image Credit: IMDb

    While we agree the movie has its faults, it has enough funny moments for you and the family to share giggles, and that’s really what Christmas is about.

    Please note, we’re recommending Chief Daddy 1 to you, watch the second part at your own risk.

    Ile Owo 

    Image Credit: IMDb

    A family gathers together and chaos ensues; it doesn’t get more Christmas-y than that.

  • If you grew up in a typical Yoruba home, you probably watched one or two movies with an opening montage of a talking drum beating the rhythmic words: “Opomulero moja lekan”. It follows up with visuals announcing Mainframe Films and Television Productions. By this time, you know you’re in for some really good time.

    Are You A True Yoruba Movie Stan If You’ve Not Watched These Mainframe Production Titles?

    The production company, owned by filmmaker Tunde Kelani, took off in 1991 and takes credit for the bulk of Yoruba Nollywood movies that have attained “classic” status. Kelani’s distinct approach to filmmaking appeals to young and old audiences in a way that makes them return for more.

    If you’re looking to join the party, and carry the Yoruba movie stan title, these mainframe production movies should be on your all-time binge list.

    “Ti Oluwa Nile” (1993)

    The trilogy shot veteran actor, Kareem Adepoju AKA Baba Wande, to fame. In the movie, Baba Wande’s character, Chief Asiyanbi, conspires with two others, JP and Sanya, to sell a sacred land. Things go awry when death comes for Chief Asiyanbi’s co-conspirators. He (Chief Asiyanbi) then makes several attempts to escape the claws of death.

    Ti Oluwa Nile also stars Dele Odule, Yemi Shodimu among others.

    “Ayo Ni Mo Fe” (1994)

    Are You A True Yoruba Movie Stan If You’ve Not Watched These Mainframe Production Titles?

    It’s one of the oldest movies that addresses mental health in Nigerian society. Ayo Ni Mo Fe follows the story of a lady who chooses to marry a struggling and irresponsible young man over a wealthy elderly trader. The young man would later impregnate and marry another woman, driving his first wife insane when she finds out about the betrayal.

    Yomi Ogunmola, Lere Paimo, Bola Obot and Kareem Adepoju, among others, feature in the film.

    “Koseegbe” (1995)

    Koseegbe follows the story of a newly promoted customs officer. Upon resumption, he decides to wage war against corruption, smuggling, fraud and all other forms of illegal activities. However, his resolve clashes with the plans of dishonest colleagues, who then scheme to have him implicated on the job.

    The movie features Jide Kosoko, Peju Ogunmola, Kola Oyewo and Yemi Shodimu, among others.

    “Oleku” (1997)

    Are You A True Yoruba Movie Stan If You’ve Not Watched These Mainframe Production Titles?

    If you’re ever in doubt about Nollywood’s ability to deliver romcoms, this classic will give you a rethink.

    Oleku benefits from a stellar performance by veteran actor Yemi Shodimu. The movie, an adaptation of Prof. Akinwunmi Ishola’s novel of the same name,  follows the story of a final-year student’s complicated love quadrangle with three women.

    It stars Lere Paimo, Iyabo Ogunsola, Feyikemi Abodunrin and Omolola Aderupoko, among others.

    “Saworoide” (1999)

    It’s one of the most popular offerings from Mainframe Productions. Saworoide show how greedy King Lapite flouts his kingdom’s cultural values for his selfish interest. King Lapite’s life is cut short when a military coup usurps the throne.

    Veteran stars like Lere Paimo, Kunle Afolayan, Kunle Bamtefa, Bukky Wright and Kola Oyewo featured in the film.

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    “Agogo Eewo” (2002)

    Are You A True Yoruba Movie Stan If You’ve Not Watched These Mainframe Production Titles?

    The sequel to the 1999 Saworoide. You might want to watch the first instalment for a premium viewing experience. The town of Jogbo needs a new king after Lagata’s (coup leader in Saworoide) death. Jogbo’s chiefs outsmart Arese, who is next in line to rule, and install a police officer hoping he’d play to their corrupt tunes. The officer is, however, determined to quell corruption in  Jogbo.

    Agogo Eewo stars Lere Paimo, Kunle Afolayan and Dejumo Lewis, among others.

    “Arugba” (2008)

    This movie is a must-watch if you’re looking to learn about the sacrifice-bearing ritual at the Osun Osogbo festival in Osun state. Starring Bukola Awoyemi as lead, Arugbo follows the story of a corrupt leader of a small Nigerian town and a young woman chosen to act as the ceremonial virgin in the village’s ritual rites. However, her chastity is questioned after she was abducted by three men.

    Arugba also stars Segun Adefila, Lere Paimo and Remi Abiola, among others.

    “Maami” (2011)

    It’s an adaptation of a 1994 book of the same title published by Nigerian playwright, Femi Osanfisan. Maami features one of the best on screen performances of Nollywood actress, Funke Akindele.

    The movie tells the story of Kashimawo, a young boy with a difficult childhood raised by a single mother under poverty-stricken conditions. Kashimawo becomes a national hero and superstar playing for the English football club, Arsenal. When he returns to his home country, Nigeria, he must decide whether or not to join the country’s National team for the 2010 South Africa World Cup.

    Wole Ojo, Olumide Bakare and Sanyo, among others, feature in the film.

  • It seems Nollywood filmmakers are determined to eat our money this December 2023, and honestly, we aren’t complaining. The titles and trailers are giving and might be worth spending on cinema tickets.

    If you watched and loved titles like Battle on Buka Street, Obara M and God Calling, the same actors and directors have more in store for you during the holidays.

    “A Tribe Called Judah”

    Following the mixed reactions that trailed Funke Akindele’s last release, She Must Be Obeyed, the actress makes a return to the big screen in December with A Tribe Called Judah.

    Akindele takes the director’s chair for the film which follows the story of a mother and her boys. When the mother falls ill, the boys devise a means to save her — rob a mall. Their operation is foiled when they meet real armed robbers at the mall.

    A Tribe Called Judah stars Funke Akindele, Pere, Tobi Makinde, Timini Egbuson and Olumide Oworu, among others. It’s out in cinemas on December 15.

    “Ada Omo Daddy”

    Mercy Aigbe is launching her first cinema project with this title, Ada Omo Daddy, and we can’t wait to see what she serves on screen. Little is known about the project, but according to Mercy, “It’s a movie that attempts to unify our cultures, regardless of our differences. It is a beautiful family-oriented drama that will have lots of comedy as well as some valuable lessons.” Fingers crossed.
    Ada Omo Daddy’s all-star cast features Sola Sobowale, Fred Amata, Dele Odule, Carol King and Omowunmi Dada, among others. It’s out in cinemas on December 15.

    “Malaika”

    https://youtu.be/zbEOMAxSlpE?si=73ruwjMihLKEVEmQ

    Ijakumo actress, Toyin Abraham, is gearing up for a major cinema release of the year, and we’re sat. This time around, the actress’ offering is Malaika, Yoruba for “angel”.

    Directed by Steve Sodiya, Malaika is about a woman who struggles with infertility in her marriage and goes on a spiritual journey to find a solution. 

    Malaika stars Toyin Abraham, Odunlade Adekola, Taiwo Ajai-Lycett and Emeka Ike, among others. It’s out in cinemas on December 22.

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    “Breath of Life”

    This December in Nollywood Movies

    Following rave reviews at the recently concluded Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF), BB Sasore’s Breath of Life finally comes to the general public.

    The inspirational title tells the story of a man of God who loses everything and becomes a shadow of his former self. However, an encounter with a young man would change the course of his life. 

    Breath of Life stars Wale Ojo, Eku Edewor, Genoveva Umeh and Chimezie Imo, among others. It drops on Prime Video on December 15.

    “Afamefuna”

    https://youtu.be/nPjdAq7dCHQ?si=ubJeZUWjxuq7m889

    Obara M director, Kayode Kasum, takes a spot in the loaded December line-up with his latest offering, Afamefuna: A Nwa-Boi Story.

    The title also screened at AFRIFF. It dives into the Igbo apprenticeship system and how it plays a significant role in wealth building. Afamefuna stars Kanayo O. Kanayo, Segun Arinze, Paul Nnadiekwe and Noble Igwe, among others. It hits the cinemas on December 1.

    “Double Dekoi”

    When King of Boys actress, Sola Sobowale and “Nnayi Sacrifice”, Kanayo O. Kanayo, link up for a crime thriller, you know you’re in for an eventful ride.

    Double Dekoi is about a young lady who infiltrates a criminal organisation led by ruthless bosses, in a bid to free her brother of murder charges. The movie also stars Yinka Quadri, Ronke Odusanya and Hilda Dokubo. It’s out in cinemas on December 1.

  • Yoruba Nollywood movies might get all the flack for predictable storylines and chaotic subtitles, but one thing is clear: they deliver on entertainment. Snippets of scenes from classics like O Le Ku and Koto Aye make the social media rounds these days, to tell you how much Nigerians want these movies to make a comeback.

    You Should Watch These Yoruba Nollywood Movies at Least Once in Your Life

    While Femi Adebayo’s Jagun Jagun and Kunle Afolayan’s Anikulapo have done a good job of stirring up a bit of nostalgia, this compilation features other Yoruba Nollywood movies that deserve your attention at least once in this lifetime.

    Yoruba action movies

    “Ogbori Elemosho” (1963)

    You Should Watch These Yoruba Nollywood Movies at Least Once in Your Life

    It’s one of the oldest epics to come out of Nollywood, through which veteran Nollywood actor, Lere Paimo, gained legend status for his iconic performance as Soun Ogunlola.

    Ogbori Elemosho follows Soun, who ended Idagiri’s terror in his village. However, he is soon banished to Oyo, where he volunteers to help King Ajagbo and his comrades to fight Elemosho, a mysterious being that’s terrorising the town. The movie also features Idowu Phillips and Kareem Adepoju, among others.

    “Saworoide” (1999)

    From the stable of Mainframe Productions, Saworoide is one of Yoruba cinema’s rare military action offerings. It follows the story of a greedy King Lapite, who flouts his kingdom’s cultural values for his selfish interest. King Lapite’s life is cut short when a military coup usurps the throne.

    Lere Paimo, Kunle Afolayan, Khabirat Kafidipe, Kunle Bamtefa, Bukky Wright and Kola Oyewo feature in the film. 

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

     Saworoide is available to stream on YouTube.

    “Jagun Jagun” (2023)

    Directed by Adebayo Tijani and Tope Adebayo Salami, the 2023 Nollywood epic tells the story of a young man who joins an elite army in his bid to become a powerful warrior and win the heart of a woman. 

    On his quest, he attracts the wrath of a bloodthirsty warlord who feels threatened by him. Featured are stars like Adedimeji Lateef, Bimbo Ademoye, Fathia Balogun and Mr Macaroni.

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    Jagun Jagun is available to stream on Netflix.

    “King of Thieves (Ageshinkole)” (2022)

    Co-written by Nollywood actor, Femi Adebayo, King of Thieves tells the story of Agesinkole, an all-powerful bandit, and his reign of terror in Ajeromi’s kingdom. However, there is more to Agesinkole than meets the eye. 

    The epic action is a culture-rich masterpiece, making it all the more engaging for viewers. The all-star cast features Femi Adebayo, Toyin Abraham, Odunlade Adekola and Ibrahim Chatta.

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    Ageshinkole is available to stream on Amazon Prime Naija.

    Romantic Nollywood movies

    “Aya Mi Owon (Madam Dearest)” (2005)

    Directed by the iconic Tade Ogidan, Madam Dearest will have you in a cocktail of emotions. It follows the story of Bukky, whose husband is jailed for life. She moves on and marries one of her husband’s employees due to mounting family pressure. But then, the original husband is exonerated. In her confusion, Bukky tells him that he’s the father of her son.

    Released in 2005, Madam Dearest features Opeyemi Aiyeola, Sola Sobowale and Yemi Solade, among others.

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    It’s available to stream on YouTube.

    “Thunderbolt: Magun” (2001)

    Directed and produced by the prolific Tunde Kelani, Thunderbolt: Magun revolves around Ngozi, an Igbo woman, and Yinka, a Yoruba man, who meet and fall in love during their one-year compulsory NYSC service. After getting married, rumours destroy their trust and ultimately lead to “magun”, a chastity control device that causes instant death to anyone who engages in sexual intercourse with its victim.

    It features Ngozi Nwosu, Lanre Balogun and Bukky Ajayi, and is available to stream on YouTube.

    “O Le Ku” (1997)

    You Should Watch These Yoruba Nollywood Movies at Least Once in Your Life

    This classic Tunde Kelani film tells the emotional tale of Ajani’s (Yemi Shodimu) love triangle with Asake, Lola Ajasa and Sade. It might be the ultimate guide to understanding why Yoruba men are notorious, starring Lere Paimo, Iyabo Ogunsola, Feyikemi Abodunrin and Omolola Aderupoko, among others. 

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    O Le Ku is available for streaming on YouTube.

    “Yemi My Lover” (1993)

    You Should Watch These Yoruba Nollywood Movies at Least Once in Your Life

    Before Hollywood swooped young Nigerians off their feet with romcoms like Bridgerton and Crazy Rich Asians, there was Yemi My Lover, which had our mummies and daddies in a chokehold.

    Written and produced by Yemi Ayebo, this movie had everything from hot romance to Bollywood-style musical performances. It featured Tajudeen Oyewole AKA Abija, Yemi Ayebo, Iyabo Momoh, Iya Rainbow and Dejo Tunfulu, among others.

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    It’s available for streaming on YouTube.

    Yoruba Comedy Movies

    “Jenifa” (2008)

    If you’ve ever wondered how Funke Akindele became a celebrated Nollywood comic actress, this movie is your answer.

    Jenifa tells the story of Sulia (Funke Akindele) who seeks greener pastures in Lagos and ends up moving with the wrong crowd. Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo and Eniola Badmus feature in the film. Since then, it’s had spinoffs like The Return of Jenifa (2011) and the comedy series, Jenifa’s Diary (2015).

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    The original movie is available to stream on YouTube.

    “Alakada” (2019)

    You Should Watch These Yoruba Nollywood Movies at Least Once in Your Life

    Similar in some aspects to Funke Akindele’s Jenifa, Alakada tells the story of a young lady from an impoverished background who gains university admission and lies her way through just to impress her other students.

    It’s one of the Yoruba Nollywood movies that cemented Toyin Abraham’s status in the industry as one who could act, but even more, crack people up. Released in 2019, Alakada features Helen Paul, Femi Adebayo and Doris Simeon, among others.

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    It’s available for streaming on YouTube.

    “Opa Kan” (2009)

    If you’ve been around on X long enough, you must’ve seen this hilarious two-minute clip of Odunlade Adekola and Olaniyi Afonja’s encounter at a food vendor’s stall. 

    Opa Kan is the Yoruba version of Aki na Ukwa. It follows the story of two friends who strive to make better for themselves and get involved in mischief in the process. It also features Antar Laniyan among others.

    “Jelili” (2011)

    If you loved Toyin Abraham’s Alakada and Funke Akindele’s Jenifa, this is one of the Yoruba Nollywood movies that should be on your binge list. Jelili follows the story of a village boy, Jelili, known for his terrible farting habit.

    He got a chance to leave the village and seek greener pastures, but all this could only happen if he wins a beauty pageant. Jelili features Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Muyiwa Ademola and Baba Wande.

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    It’s available for streaming on Netflix.

    Yoruba Horror Movies

    “Ti Oluwa Nile” (1993)

    Another classic from the stable of Tunde Kelani’s Mainframe Film Productions, Ti Oluwa Nile is your go-to if you’re in the mood for some spooky ghost stories. The film, which shot veteran actor, Kareem Adepoju, to fame, follows the story of Chief Asiyanbi as he conspires with JP and Sanya to sell a sacred land. 

    As death takes the two other culprits for their misdeeds, Chief Asiyanbi makes several attempts to escape its claws. Ti Oluwa Nile features Kareem Adepoju, Dele Odule, Yemi Shodimu among others. 

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    It’s available for streaming on YouTube.

    “Eran Iya Osogbo” (1999)

    If you find a Nigerian who isn’t comfortable around black goats, this movie is probably the reason why. Directed by Koto Aye filmmaker, Ajileye, Eran Iya Osogbo follows the story of a granny who loves her goat more than everyone else and punishes those who harm it. 

    Turns out the goat was a human in animal form. Eran Iya Oshogbo features Madam Grace Oyin-Adejobi, Dele Odule and Ronke Oshodi Oke.

    Where to download and watch this Yoruba Nollywood movie?

    It’s available for streaming on YouTube.

    “Koto Aye” (2001)

    Produced by late filmmaker, Yekini Ajileye, Koto Aye is one of the Yoruba Nollywood movies popular for sending chills down viewers’ spines. 

    The movie follows the story of a village terrorised by a coven of evil witches. When the king tries to wage war against them, they go all out and make life a living hell for him.
    Koto Aye features stars like Iya Gbonkan, Yekini Ajileye, Iyamileko and Koledowo, among others.

  • Every now and again, Nollywood dishes out a couple romcoms to remind us love exists. Sometimes, they hit the spot and have everyone shouting “God, when?” Other times, they scare the living daylight out of us and leave us with zero desire to fall in love.

    Here are all the Nollywood rom-coms that’ll have you clutching your pearls and sprinkling holy water at your screen.

    A Sunday Affair 

    Absolutely nothing romantic or funny about Sunday confessing love to two best friends, getting one pregnant, waiting for her to die, and then, raising their child with the other best friend. The other best friend whom he’d been sleeping with while the mother of his child was alive.

    Namaste Wahala 

    Didi’s mother referred to women as “Cows that shouldn’t be bought after they’ve been milked”. If that isn’t enough to have you clutching your pearls, the multiple dancing and singing scenes should do the trick.

    Dinner at My Place

    A woman’s proposal is crashed by her man’s ex, and her $22,000 engagement ring ends up in the ex’s stomach. 

    If you don’t think it’s horrifying for the babe, then at least, you can see how it was a horrifying experience for the ring.

    Before Valentine’s 

    It’s set in a salon a day before Valentine’s, and normally, that’d be a recipe for humour. But the way skeletons started jumping out of everyone’s closets, you’d need to hold your chest every ten minutes.

    2 Weeks in Lagos

    Ejikeme and Lola fall in love and get engaged in under two weeks. It seems like a cute love story until you get to the part where Ejikeme’s mother kidnaps Lola to keep her away from her son, and Lola decides to stay with him after her release instead of running in the other direction like a sane person.

    Love in a Pandemic 

    Honestly, this film is on this list solely because it’s set during the COVID-19 pandemic, and that was a horrifying time for all.

    Okafor’s Law

    A man nicknamed “The terminator” sets out to prove the existence of a law only him and his two best friends care about, by seducing three ex-girlfriends in 21 days. It has the most important ingredient of a good horror film: a simple-minded protagonist embarking on an errand no-one sent him on. 

  • If you’ve seen Tade Ogidan’s Diamond Ring, William Uchemba’s Mamba’s Diamond, and Kunle Afolayan’s latest, Ijogbon, you’ll agree when I say Nigerians don’t know how to act when they find treasure.

    What You Shouldn’t Do When You Find Treasure in Nigeria
    Lead cast of Ijogbon

    While the movies may be far-fetched from reality (because BFR, is there any treasure left to find in Nigeria?), it’s important to highlight the things you shouldn’t do when you get lucky and find diamonds or gold in this land. 

    *SPOILER ALERT

    Don’t: Talk

    What You Shouldn’t Do When You Find Treasure in Nigeria

    Everything took a downward spiral after the four friends found the diamonds and started cooking up ideas right on the same spot. 

    Do: Go home, drink water, take a shower, and that’s only when you’ll make decisions with a sound mind.

    Don’t: Patronise a lousy dealer called Owonifaari

    What You Shouldn’t Do When You Find Treasure in Nigeria

    It was nice enough that they were smart not to involve the police, but they compensated for that by making a terrible mistake. Listen, a dealer can make or mar you. 

    Do: Wake up every morning and stare at your treasure knowing you’re only a footstep away from poverty.

    Don’t: Go outside

    What You Shouldn’t Do When You Find Treasure in Nigeria

    Outside is dangerous enough when you don’t have money, so when you are a walking bag of diamonds, you should be scarce. 

    Although they had a secret shed as their hideout, they did a terrible job with it, hence why they were easily spotted.

    Do: Be unavailable 

    [ad]

    Don’t: Splurge

    Your brain is probably thinking “cash out” and buy all you’ve always wanted, but that’s the fastest way to get in trouble.

    Do: Embrace sapa even more

    Don’t: Stay in the same city

    Jamiu was the only one who had his head in the game among the four friends. Our man was only thinking of heading out to Canada. The others felt a tad bit too comfortable eating where they shat. 

    Do: Japa

    Don’t: Involve third parties

    The smaller the party, the safer it is and the juicier the rewards. Oby broke this code when she brought Omo Oba to the shed where they hid the diamonds. If you must involve a third party, it shouldn’t be a royal prince who’s already set up for life.

    Do: Gatekeep

    You’ll have your fill of grilled, peppered or fried meat and many more at Zikoko’s meat festival on November 11. Have you bought your Burning Ram ticket? You can do that real quick here.

  • Choose carefully, because we will be judging.

  • Nigerians on X were caught up on drawing the most hilarious scenarios from the old money, new money conversation throughout last week. But is a topic even worth discussing if it hasn’t made for premium Nollywood home video content?

    A Nollywood Guide to Understanding Old and New Money

    If you still don’t have a full grasp of the topic, these Nollywood productions will make clear the difference between old and new money.

    The Wedding Party | Old Money

    Obianuju Onwuka (Ireti Doyle) describing Dunni Coker (Adesua Etomi), daughter of wealthy business tycoons, as a “native house girl from Ekiti state” is all the explanation you need as to why it isn’t just about the cash for old money folks. Do you have pedigree?

    Living in Bondage | New Money

    New money is fast, loud and noisy. When you show up, you have to show off. You can only get their attention when you pull up to a  family meeting or casual get-together in a Ferrari, Porsche 911 Carrera or Lexus GX, just like in this movie.

    Bling Lagosians | Old Money

    Old money folks don’t care if you wear designers. The question is, are you wearing the latest season? In Bling Lagosians, friends drag Mopelola Holloway for wearing Ituen Basi of three seasons ago. God, abeg.

    Simi, No Forget | Old Money

    Marriage is a big deal for old-money folks. If you plan to marry one of them, prepare to answer questions like: “Who are your parents?” and “What is your pedigree?”

    Chief Daddy |Old Money

    There’s always a great-granddaddy or grandaddy who has every member of the family set up for life with his will, like Chief Beecroft in Chief Daddy. Are you beginning to get the picture? Old money folks don’t even have to work; they do it for the sake of it.

    King of Boys |New Money

    New money folks of today are the old money folks of tomorrow, which is why politics is important to them. New money parents are either running for office, sponsoring a political party or setting their wards up for a political appointment. In Alhaja Eniola Salami’s (Sola Sobowale) case, she wanted to run for governor but was outsmarted.

    Blood Sisters | New Money

    It’s hard, and I mean extremely hard, to marry into old money, but folks can occasionally get lucky with new money. Mind you, if it happens, new money parents will make it crystal clear they don’t give a fuck about you or your family. Just like in the dining scene, where Uduak Ademola (Kate Henshaw) shows no regard for her potential in-laws. 

    Here’s your chance to network with old money and new folks at Zikoko’s upcoming meat festival.

    Sign up here to be notified when ticket sales begin.