Veteran Yoruba filmmaker and theatre icon, Chief Lere Paimo, has raised alarm over an alleged plan to remake the classic film Ogbori Elemoso without his consent, accusing the Soun of Ogbomoso and a yet-to-be-named film director of being behind the move.
In a statement made available to the press on Tuesday, Paimo, popularly known for his pioneering roles in Yoruba epic cinema, described the reported plan as a violation of his intellectual property rights and a blatant disregard for due process in the creative industry.
According to him, Ogbori Elemoso is a culturally significant work deeply rooted in Yoruba history and tradition, and any attempt to reproduce, remake or adapt the film without the approval of its original creator amounts to infringement and cultural misrepresentation.
“I was shocked to learn that discussions are ongoing to remake Ogbori Elemoso without my knowledge or consent. This film is my creative work, and no individual or institution has the right to tamper with it without due engagement with me,” Paimo said.
The veteran actor further warned that beyond legal implications, such an action could distort historical narratives and undermine the integrity of Yoruba cultural heritage. He called on relevant stakeholders in the film industry, cultural institutions and legal authorities to intervene and prevent what he described as an “unacceptable act.”
As of the time of filing this report, neither the palace of the Soun of Ogbomoso nor the alleged film director has issued an official response to the allegation.
The controversy has sparked conversations within the Yoruba movie industry, with many calling for stronger protection of intellectual property rights and greater respect for veteran creatives whose works laid the foundation for contemporary Nigerian cinema.