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Over the years, Nollywood has given us stellar movies like Lionheart, Blood Vessel, and King of Thieves, which have broken records and language barriers. The industry has given us different storylines on different platforms, with more movies debuting first in cinema before finding a home on one of the two streaming giants in Nigeria – Netflix and Amazon’s Prime Video.
Calculate the amount of money made from ticket sales and whatever the streaming service will pay for streaming rights real quick.
The Yoruba branch of Nollywood seems to have seen the performance of these “big production” movies that debut in cinema and have decided to pitch their tent there.
Mainstream Nollywood seems to have mastered the art of hiding behind these big productions and bigger names to deliver stories that leave you at a loss for words, wondering what you could’ve possibly done to deserve such treatment.
While Mainstream has been doing this for years, the Yoruba branch’s insistence on breaking in with the cinema crowd has only become obvious in the last year, with back-to-back cinema releases from industry OGs like Femi Adebayo (King of Thieves), Odunlade Adekola (Orisa), Jaiye Kuti (Alagbede), and Toyin Abraham (Ijakumo).
These movies get the audience’s attention with big premieres and interesting marketing strategies, causing people to flock to watch them on release only to return with mouths full of questions regarding the storyline, acting, and general quality.
Naturally, this has us moaning and groaning every time a new movie is released, but maybe this issue affects the entire industry, not just this branch.
Here’s why
On multiple occasions, Nigerians have come out to complain about the lack of authentic stories about the reality of the average Nigerian, their experiences, and culture, as well as their tiredness at the continuous portrayal of flamboyant displays of wealth and the Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge – all of which are actually part of the Nigerian experience – on their screens.
Nollywood has obviously taken this to heart and tried its hands at something new, but just because the action genre, language-speaking epics, and the theme of police brutality work for some doesn’t mean they’ll work for others.
The industry needs to realize that the audience has grown tired of seeing the same storylines with the same faces in the same settings. It’s time for the industry and all its branches to return to the drawing board and figure out how to tell stories in ways that don’t leave the audience questioning their sanity.
Yoruba language films may currently be offering us poor-quality entertainment on multiple distribution platforms (cinema and streaming services) in exchange for our time and money, but this isn’t a problem peculiar to them.
The entire industry moves as though it could care less for its audience, almost like they’re poking, prodding, and daring us, trying to see how much they can get away with in plotlines, costume, location, makeup, and VFX. At this point, we might need to stop complaining, get down on our knees, and beg industry stakeholders of all the branches (Mainstream, Yoruba, Asaba, Kannywood, Abuja, etc) to have mercy on us and start caring about the art that comes within the business of filmmaking.
Five months into 2024, Nollywood has said painful goodbyes to beloved stars who have played their parts in delighting movie and TV audiences for years. In March, not one but two comic actors passed away, sending a shock wave across the industry. We take a look at the Nollywood actors who have passed away in 2024.
Jimi Solanke
Nollywood actor and dramatist, Jimi Solanke, died on February 5, 2024, aged 81. The actor was reportedly in and out of the hospital since December 2023 over an undisclosed illness. Solanke was a revered actor popular for the children’s show, Tales by Moonlight, on NTA during the late 90s. His other works include Family Scene, The Village Headmaster and Shadow Parties.
John Okafor
Legendary comic actor, John Okafor, died on March 2, 2024, after a two-year-long battle with diabetes. Popularly called Mr Ibu by fans, the actor lost one of his legs to amputation in November 2023.
Mr Ibu was renowned for his comedic roles in Nollywood and his jovial personality in real life. His notable works include Mr Ibu, Police Recruit, Mr Ibu Goes to School and Nicodemus.
Amaechi Muonagor
The veteran actor died on March 24, 2024, aged 61, three weeks after the demise of colleague, Mr Ibu. Muonagor was in and out of the hospital over his battle with kidney disease.
The actor succumbed to death a few days after he solicited financial assistance from Nigerians to facilitate a medical trip abroad. He was one of the leading men in the English-speaking faction of Nollywood around the late 90s and mid 2000s. His works include My Village People, Aki na Ukwa and Igodo.
Adejumoke Aderounmu
Nollywood actress, Adejumoke Aderounmu, passed away on April 6, 2024, aged 40. She became popular for her breakthrough role as “Esther” in Funke Akindele’s comedy series, Jenifa’s Diaries. Before her demise, the actress battled an undisclosed sickness which caused her to take a break from the industry.
Aderounmu started her professional acting career in Tunde Kelani’s Arugba and was featured in movies like Dazzling Mirage, La Femme Anjola and Gone.
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Pope Odonwodo
Popularly known as Junior Pope, Nollywood actor, Pope Odonwondo died on April 10, days after the death of colleague, Adejumoke Aderounmu. The actor died after drowning in a tragic boat accident while filming in Asaba, Delta state.
Until his demise, he was a force to reckon with in the Eastern faction of Nollywood, popularly called the “Asaba film industry”. Junior Pope got his breakthrough in Nollywood after featuring in Tchidi Chikere’s film, Secret Adventures (2007). Some other notable works include Honey Money, Wrong Initiation and No Way Through.
Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji
The comic actor, famously known as Sisi Quadri, passed away on March 1, 2024, aged 44. Sisi Quadri was one of the leading comic actors in the Yoruba movie industry, loved for his witty and sharp-mouthed characters. Before the actor’s demise, he had crossed into skitmaking, collaborating with content creators like Isbae U, Bimbo Ademoye, Mr Macaroni and many more. His notable works include Anikulapo: The Rise of The Spectre, Seranko Seniyan and Eran Iya Osogbo.
Deji Aderemi
Popularly known as Baba Olofa Ina, veteran Nollywood actor Deji Aderemi died on January 4, 2024, aged 73. He was famous for acting as a traditional chief and Ifa priest in several Yoruba movies. His most recent work was Kunle Afolayan’s Netflix series: Anikulapo Rise of The Spectre. His other notable films include Kabiyesi Olodumare, Ija Omode and Ewe Orun.
It’s only four months into 2024 and some of the biggest movie offerings have already come from Yoruba Nollywood. If you’ve not been paying attention, we’ve taken the trouble of compiling some of the best Yoruba movies of 2024 that should be on the top of your binge list.
Let’s go.
“Ajakaju” (Beast of Two Worlds)
Actress Eniola Ajao makes her cinema debut in this Yoruba epic you’ll love if you enjoyed Femi Adebayo’s Jagun Jagun and Odunlade Adekola’s Orisa.
Ajakaju follows the story of a king whose reign is threatened due to his three queens’ struggle to give him an heir. When all three wives fall pregnant again, they all bore girls. In his desperation, King Towobola marries a woman from a strange village who grants his desire, but not without consequences.
Eniola Ajao takes on the titular character and stars alongside Odunlade Adekola, Fathia Williams, and Mercy Aigbe, among others. It was released in March 2024 and is currently showing in cinemas across Nigeria.
“Alagbede”
Veteran Nollywood actress, Jaiye Kuti, also makes her first big screen debut in this movie which has been likened to Mainframe’s Oleku for its cinematography and costumes.
Alagbede is the story of a poor blacksmith who falls in love with a woman from a humble background. His soon-to-be mother-in-law makes it clear she’d only support their union if he levels up, leading the blacksmith to resort to money rituals. Unfortunately, his newfound wealth comes with several complications.
Released in April 2024, the movie features Femi Adebayo, Bimbo Oshin, Jaiye Kuti, and Gabriel Afolayan, among others.
It’s currently showing in cinemas across Nigeria.
“Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre” (Series)
Director Kunle Afolayan kicked off 2024 with the four-part series of his hugely successful 2022 Netflix Original film, Anikulapo.
In Anikulapo: Rise of The Spectre, Saro is given a second chance at life but he’s confronted with a daunting debt owed to the afterlife. He’s tasked to return to Earth and undo the resurrection of the 20 souls he had once brought back to life.
Meanwhile, the Oyo kingdom suffers a series of calamities due to the Akala’s curse, with the oracle prescribing Arolake’s return as the only solution.
The series debuted on Netflix in March 2024. Kunle Remi, Bimbo Ademoye, and Sola Sobowale are joined by new cast members like Owobo Ogunde, Layi Wasabi, and Lateef Adedimeji, among others. It’s available to stream on Netflix.
“Ajosepo”
After an amazing Netflix run with Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story, ace director Kayode Kasum makes his first cinema run of the year with this mixed-language family comedy.
The film features a stellar ensemble and follows the lives of Dapo and Tani, a young couple preparing for their wedding with their families in a luxurious hotel. However, the festivities soon lead to a series of chaotic events.
Released in April 2024, Ajosepo stars Yemi Solade, Ronke Oshodi Oke, Bisola Aiyeola, and Timini Egbuson, among others. It’s currently showing in cinemas across Nigeria.
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“Agba Cooker”
If you’re in the mood for some Yoruba hardcore action, you should look into this Afeez Owo-directed movie.
In Agba Picker, a notorious gang of criminals wreak chaos on an entire city with the help of a fortified fraudster. The group soon encounters some rivalry and has to battle for their place in the criminal underworld.
The movie stars Femi Adebayo, Odunlade Adekola, Malaika, and Dayo Amusa, among others.
It was released in April 2024 and is currently available to stream on YouTube.
“Ajaku Akata”
Jagun Jagun director, Adebayo Tijani, once again returns to the director’s chair in this action-packed movie.
A woman is forced to struggle for survival after a greedy relative wiped out her family members in a day. She seemingly finds comfort in the hands of another relative until she realises that things aren’t as they seem.
Ajaku Akata stars Bimbo Oshin, Ronke Odusanya, Wunmi Toriola, among others. It was released in March 2024 and is available to stream on YouTube.
“Igi Owo”
If you’re a sucker for Yoruba drama, Igi Owo should be on your radar.
A husband and wife and their child enjoy their modest lives until things go awry and they’re pushed to seek financial freedom. When help finally comes their way, it changes the dynamics of the family, with the husband doing all he can to win back his loved ones.
Released in April 2024, Igi Owo stars Odunlade Adekola, Antar Laniyan, and Rotimi Salami, among others.
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.
Yoruba Nollywood brawls will have you questioning your life choices on Obasanjo’s internet. As an observer, you’re locked in a perpetual loop of “This isn’t my business” and “How did XYZ respond?”
Listen, you’re not alone. Their spectacle has more entertainment value than whatever airs on DSTV these days. So why are these unscripted brawls so bloody intriguing? Let’s answer the question together.
Public shade that leaves no room for guesses
You’ll hardly catch the Yoruba Nollywood players on X. Instagram is their war zone, and they’ll throw that shade with enough clues to get the battle started.
In February 2023, during the heat of the presidential elections, Dayo Amusa took to Instagram to shade a colleague who enjoyed favours from MC Oluomo but turned against him during the election season. It didn’t take long for followers to put the puzzle together and draw a line to Iyabo Ojo. In her response, she maintained she wasn’t the one being addressed, but thanks to the many clues Dayo shared, the online FBI were convinced she is.
Instagram live sessions that rival Netflix shows
The last thing you should struggle with during a Yoruba Nollywood brawl is poor internet or no data. You’ll miss out on the best parts. For example, Lizzy Anjorin has had more than a dozen Instagram Live sessions in which she slanders Iyabo Ojo in great detail. And as you may imagine, they’re hot and spicy from beginning to end.
A slap when the situation calls for it
Physical violence is hardly ever the case in these brawls, but it’s not to be entirely ruled out.
In 2021, actresses, Remi Surutu and Fathia Williams, had the internet in a complete chokehold. What happened? Remi confronted Fathia, whom she claimed had been talking about her everywhere, at an event and slapped her face. In an interview after the event, the actress owned her actions with her full chest.
“I decided to confront her and deal with her at that event because somebody needed to call her to order.”
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They always come with receipts
One thing is sure when two Yoruba Nollywood actresses go at it. You’ll get unfettered access to WhatsApp screenshots, legal documents and voice note recordings. They never joke with their receipts.
Family is hardly ever left out
At the height of these brawls, moral lines are blurred. These movie stars often extend the vitriol to loved ones, not minding public backlash.
In 2021, during online warfare with Lizzy Anjorin, Toyin Abraham had to beg the actress not to involve her husband and children. “That woman kept cursing my son and husband. You can curse me, but do not curse my son.”
But it hasn’t stopped Anjorin from towing the same lines in her ongoing battle with Iyabo Ojo. Anjorin dragged Ojo’s children, lover and didn’t even spare her late mum.
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.
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)
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)
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)
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.
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.
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)
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)
This classic Tunde Kelani filmtells 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)
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)
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 thatshould 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.
Yoruba-language cinema, a sub-industry of Nollywood has come a long way since seasoned thespians like Hubert Ogunde, Ade Love and Duro Ladipo first opened up a wave of possibilities with theatre productions in the 1960s.
The years that followed have witnessed a steady rise in the quality of productions, and rightly so, the talents are much more refined, delivering Oscar-worthy performances one film at a time. These ones in particular, have bodied the movement, and we’re simply in awe.
Kareem Adepoju (Baba Wande)
Source: CityPeopleMagazine
Kareem Adepoju is of the old Nollywood tapestry, and there’s no touching the kind of wit he brings to the screen. Adepoju shot to fame after his riveting performance as Oloye Otun in Mainframe’s Ti Oluwa Ni Ile in 1993. He’s cemented his place in the industry over the years with class act performances in Ayọ Ni Mọ Fẹ, Abeni, Arugba, and most recently, Kunle Afolayan’s Anikulapo.
Lanre Hassan (Iya Awero)
Source: CityPeopleMagazine
With an acting career that has spanned over five decades, Lanre Hassan AKA Iya Awero belongs in the upper echelons of Nigerian cinema. The septuagenarian kicked off her career on stage after joining Ojo Ladipo’s theatre group in 1964. She would go on to take acting classes facilitated by Nobel Laureate, Prof Wole Soyinka. Over the years, Hassan’s performance has shone in productions like Owo Blow, Sade Blade and Kemi Adetiba’s King of Boys.
Lere Paimo (Eda Onile Ola)
Source: Instagram (@lere_paimo)
Although he’s hardly in action these days, Chief Lere Paimo AKA Ede Onile Ola is your male version of Patience Ozokwor in movies. He brought a vigour to characters that sent chills down the spines of viewers. Like his peers, the actor started out on stage after joining Oyin Adejobo’s theatre group in 1960. However, his breakthrough in cinema came with his gripping performance as Soun Ogunola in Yoruba epic, Ogbori Elemosho. Some of his other notable works include Saworoide, Ayonimofe and Agogo Eewo.
Idowu Philips (Mama Rainbow)
Source: BellaNaija
It’s impossible to have a conversation about Yoruba cinema and not acknowledge the bundle of talent that is Idowu Philips AKA Mama Rainbow. Acting happened by coincidence for her after she took charge of a drama group her husband, Ayanfemi, left behind following his death in 1984. The group will eventually fall apart after five years. Left with five kids to cater for on her own, she jumped on every movie role that came her way. Notable works include Apaadi, Ogidan and Airtel’s The Inlaws.
Jide Kosoko
Source: Instagram (@princejidekosoko)
Unarguably one of the leading men in Nigeria’s movie landscape, Jide Kosoko firmly holds ground whether he’s in the Yoruba-language or English-speaking divisions of Nollywood. This has been the hallmark of his career since he debuted in the 1964 TV production, Makanjuola. More than five decades later, the thespian continues to etch an indelible footprint in Nollywood. Asewo to re Mecca, Ti Oluwa ni Ile and The Royal Hibiscus Hotel are some notable films to look out for.
Peju Ogunmola
Source: Vanguard
As a secondary school student, Peju Ogunmola made an unceremonious entry into the movie scene in Ade Love’s 1979 release, Kadara. But she’s grown with the industry over the years and made a remarkable impact. Her exceptional acting and ability to portray characters with an unmatched depth and authenticity have made her a go-to for producers and directors. Experience her at her best in productions like Koseegbe, King of Thieves and Ahon.
Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello)
Source: Instagram (@adebayo.salami)
Known to many as “Oga Bello”, Adebayo Salami is the gift that keeps giving to Yoruba cinema, and he deserves all the flowers in the garden. With a career that spans over five decades, he’s managed to pass the baton to four of his children, who are all active players in Yoruba Nollywood. He started on stage after joining the drama group, Young Concert Party, under the leadership of Ojo Ladipo in 1964. Oga Bello would take over leadership of the group in 1978, after Ladipo’s demise; the new role catapulted him into the limelight. He produced his first movie, Ogun Ajaye, in 1985, and has featured in and directed hundreds of movies since. Catch him in Omo Ghetto, Owo Blow and Ajani Ogun.
Toyin Afolayan (Lola Idije)
Source: 36NG
A much-adored fav of Gen-Zs, due to slangs like “Pele, my dear” and “Soro Soke, wayray”, Toyin Afolayan AKA Lola Idije is of Nollywood royalty, and there’s no touching the hem of her garment. Rising to fame after her role as Mama Adisa in the 1995 production, Deadly Affair, it’s been over two decades of riveting performances whenever she pops on the screen. She’s also Ade Love’s younger sister and aunt to filmmaker, Kunle Afolayan, and actors, Aremu and Gabriel Afolayan.
Yinka Quadri
Source: Newswireng
With over a hundred productions to his name, Yinka Quadri has earned his place as an icon in Yoruba-language cinema. The veteran actor kicked off his career in 1977, after he dropped out of school to form a drama group with his friends. Quadri would go on to co-found Odunfa Caucus, a theatre group that platformed talents like Funke Akindele, Iyabo Ojo and Saheed Balogun, among others. You can catch Quadri’s magic in movies like Apesin, Abulesowo and Apaadi.
Fausat Balogun (Madam Saje)
Source: AllNewsNigeria
Nobody does it like Fausat Balogun, and it’s been over four decades of pure acting excellence that still holds viewers spellbound. Famously known as Madam Saje, the thespian started her acting career in 1975 after she completed primary school. She would later join Lagos Television (LTV 8) in 1980, where she shot Abeni Ajagun, and move on to NTA 7 in 1991 for a show with Baba Suwe called Erin Kee Kee, which birthed the name Madam Saje. Her career has seen an upward spiral ever since; watch Ofin Igbeyawo, Atila and Alase Aye for proof.
Nollywood icon and veteran actor Ojo Arowosafe, AKA Fadeyi Oloro, famous for Yoruba classics like Alagbara Ilu and Ija Abija has passed away at the age of 66 on March 7, 2023.
Arowosafe was a big star in the 1980s, andI recently had a conversation with his dear friend and fellow actor, Adeshola Makinde AKA Shomak. Here’s all you need to know about the actor who created one of the most iconic villains in Nollywood history.
Life before he became famous
Before he got in front of the camera, Arowosafe was in Ado Ekiti, learning to be a mechanic. He found his passion for acting when he was about 25 after he joined a drama group organised by another Yoruba movie icon, Jimoh Aliyu. The group travelled around Nigeria doing stage plays, and it was at one of these stage plays in Kaduna that Arowosafe met his friend, Shomak in 1982.
The two were in different drama groups but ended up bonding over their love of acting.
Arowosafe’s big break was on the Yoruba TV show, Arelu, which aired in 1987. Arelu means catastrophe, and it was Super Story before Wale Adenuga even created Super Story. The show had such an influence on pop culture back then, that the late fuji icon Sikiru Ayinde Barrister sang about Fadeyi Oloro (Arowosafe’s character) in a song on his 1988 album, Barry @ 40.
The character of Fadeyi Oloro was the show’s villain who used jazz to deal with anyone who crossed him. Fadeyi was also famous for iconic one-liners we can still use today, like: Bó bá sí wú ọ́, má fiyè dénú [if you like, don’t calm down o] and Mo lọ mo bọ̀, n ò bọmọ jẹ́ [I went, and I’ve returned with my name and character unsullied]. E for Energy.
Shomak recalls feeling very proud to see his friend blow up and become a cultural icon on the screen. “He played Fadeyi Oloro so well that people thought he was scary in real life,” he said. “They were always surprised that he was just a funny guy.”
Arowosafe as Fadeyi Oloro inspired his other villain roles in Yoruba films like Jagun Ina and Inu Bibi.
What will his friend miss the most about him?
Less than 24 hours after his passing, Showmak tells Zikoko that while he regrets not seeing his friend this year (2023), he’ll miss Arowosafe’s kindness, his ability to always give the best advice and make everyone feel comfortable.
“He could be sitting with you for the first time and still think of a joke that’ll make you laugh,” he says. “Fadeyi Oloro always made everyone around him feel like they belonged.”
R.I.P to an icon who changed the game, leaving behind a legacy that remains unmatched even after almost 40 years in the industry.
Yoruba Nollywood is improving and we appreciate them for it, but some things still need extra work. We made a list of them. If watching Yoruba films stress you out, you will probably relate to this list.
If you know anyone who works in the Yoruba film industry, please share this with them. We need to see change.
1. The housewives are always wearing high heels in the house.
This has never made sense to me. How can you wake up in the morning, and you have on a full face-beat coupled with high heels, only to sit down at home to watch TV? Leg no dey pain you? Yoruba Nollywood needs to create a world where their housewives walk around in hair bonnet and slippers, please. That one is more believable.
2. The husbands are always working in the office.
But what exactly are they doing? Nobody has an idea. We just know they wake up, carry briefcase and go to the “office.” And when evening comes, they return home from the office. Most times, the point of the office is for adultery. Which begs the question, do they work in the office of adultery?
3. They are always winning contracts.
“Sweetheart, I won that 100 million naira contract!” Okay, we are happy for you. But contract to do what? To build the 4th Mainland Bridge or what? If you want to get rich in a Yoruba film, just win a contract. Suddenly, you are living in a duplex, your wife has bleached and turned yellow and she is wearing high heels and bridal make-up at 8am in the morning to sit at home all day. You go fear contract.
4. The wives always prepare their husband’s favourite dish.
Favourite dish don suffer. Every time the husband returns from work, his wife comes to welcome him in her high heels and bridal make-up. She first loosens his tie, then tells him she has run his bathwater and prepared his favourite dish. I want to know, is it every time she cooks his favourite dish? Or does he have more than one favourite dish? And what happens on the day she does not cook this favourite dish? And last but not the least, why is this favourite dish white rice and stew???
5. Wearing make-up to bed.
I don’t know what universe Yoruba films exist in, but if you wake up the actresses in the middle of the night, you will find them popping. They can even enter a nightclub with the make-up on their face. They just need to carry handbags and wear a shiny gown and they are good to go.
6. The women don’t work.
I have been complaining about the heels all day, but it is important to note that the women in Yoruba films don’t work. They just set the breakfast table like they are throwing a party and the husband won’t eat because he’s in a hurry. What is sapa? It doesn’t exist in Yoruba Nollywood.
7. Yes, they have women who work.
But those ones are usually portrayed as the bad wives. Ehen nau, how dare you have a job and be a good wife in Yoruba Nollywood? E no dey work that way. That is why the working women in Yoruba Nollywood are the bad ones. I don’t know if their scriptwriters have caught on feminism yet, but I won’t be surprised if there’s a Yoruba film where the wife is a feminist who works and who, because of her feminism and job, is a bad wife. If that movie exists, point me to it.
8. They always call millions and millions.
It’s only in Yoruba films that a child will collect one million naira pocket money for school. Haba. Is it that easy? Sugar Daddy will carry a babe, next thing, he’s dashing her five million naira, for sex that happened under the bed sheet? Sex that the sugar daddy’s singlet is still on? Okay oh. Keep lying. How much is the film’s budget that someone will be collecting five million naira for sex? Yoruba Nollywood, please dears.
Are there people less invested in their jobs than the subtitlers that work for Yoruba Nollywood? If there are, we haven’t found them. So, we gathered 15 pictures that show times they couldn’t even be bothered.
1. The deal is what now?
2. Huh?
3. In case you needed clarification.
4. *Runs to google the word “shurty”*
5. How many days make up a “view” weeks?
6. The case of this confusing subtitle deserves attention too.
7. Excuse me?
8. Is “pregnants” for when it’s more than one child?
While new Nollywood still very rarely includes sex scenes (or even kissing scenes), Yoruba Nollywood has been out here being horny as hell. So, we gathered a few pictures that show just how much they seem to love having and talking about sex.
