The National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) has announced that it will not classify or approve the controversial Nollywood film originally titled Badagry: I Bad, I Gree, following public backlash over alleged misrepresentation of the historical town of Badagry, Lagos State.
The movie, directed by Davison Izeaghegbe and produced by Destiny Austine Omon of Akogun Multimedia Production, was scheduled for release on Friday, July 4, 2025. It features Nollywood veterans like Alex Osifo, Yemi Blaq, and Jude Orhorha.
Why the Film Faced Rejection
The film drew sharp criticism for its title and promotional imagery, which depicted elements like guns, cultism, and gangsterism—images many deemed disrespectful to Badagry’s legacy as one of Nigeria’s most culturally and historically significant towns.
NFVCB Executive Director, Dr Shaibu Husseini, confirmed via a Facebook post that the board had received numerous petitions and complaints from filmmakers, community leaders, and concerned citizens.
“We reiterate that the Board will not approve any content that promotes ethnic, cultural, or religious discrimination, undermines national security, or encourages public disorder,” Husseini wrote.
He also disclosed that the board would not permit the release or classification of the film unless the producers addressed key concerns raised by the review panel.
Cultural Stakeholders React
Veteran filmmaker Tunde Alabi-Hundeyin was among the loudest voices criticizing the film. Quoting his message shared via Lagos PPRO Benjamin Hundeyin, Alabi-Hundeyin said:
“I can’t believe one creatively shallow producer will just malign the dignity of one of the most historically precious lands on the African continent.”
He praised the swift action taken by Dr Husseini, revealing that nine concerned citizens from Badagry had submitted formal petitions to the NFVCB.
The Ogu General Assembly (OGA), the apex socio-cultural body of the Ogu people, also released a strong statement condemning the film:
“The title and imagery portray Badagry in a dishonourable light. We strongly reject the association of our peaceful and culturally rich land with criminality and violence.”
Producers Respond: Film Renamed to I Bad
In response to the controversy, Destiny Austine Omon issued a public apology and confirmed that the film’s title had been changed to “I Bad”.
“We acknowledge the cultural significance of the name Badagry and apologise for any distress caused,” Omon stated.
He emphasized that the film’s story does not reflect or reference Badagry, the Ogu people, or any specific ethnic group.
“The narrative is purely fictional and explores themes of personal identity and societal struggles, without any connection to Badagry or its people.”
Omon expressed gratitude to the public for their “constructive feedback” and pledged to uphold higher standards of cultural sensitivity and responsible storytelling in future projects.
Final Word from the Ogu Community
A statement from the Ogu General Assembly Steering Committee—signed by Prof. Jendele Hungbo and Mr. Hosu Mewhenu—commended the NFVCB’s intervention and urged filmmakers to respect the identity and values of host communities.
“We appreciate the NFVCB for protecting our cultural integrity. Filmmakers are welcome to use Badagry as a backdrop, but they must do so with respect and accuracy.”
