Actor and director Daniel Etim-Effiong has responded to the controversy surrounding his Netflix film The Herd, following accusations that the movie stereotypes certain ethnic and religious groups.
Speaking about the backlash, Effiong explained that the film was never intended to attack or portray any group negatively but to tell a powerful story that mirrors real issues facing Nigeria. According to him, the criticism began after viewers reacted to scenes in the teaser showing herders with cattle, which some interpreted as offensive.
“I didn’t anticipate the backlash. I just wanted to tell a heartfelt story. How I know that the story would be heartfelt is that if I’m moved by the telling of the story, then I’m sure that someone else will also be moved by it. That was what I went out to do, to tell an impactful story,” he said.
Effiong stressed that the production was handled with sensitivity, revealing that consultations were held with Fulani people and Muslims during the development process. He added that the script, written by Lani Aisida, was thoroughly researched to ensure it did not target or stereotype any ethnic or religious group.
The Herd is a Nigerian crime thriller and marks Daniel Etim-Effiong’s feature-length directorial debut. The film premiered in cinemas on October 17 before landing on Netflix on November 21, where it quickly sparked widespread debate.
The story follows a group of friends whose wedding journey turns into a nightmare after their convoy is attacked by armed men posing as herders. As they fight to survive, the film explores themes of fear, betrayal, ransom demands and difficult moral choices.
The movie boasts an ensemble cast including Daniel Etim-Effiong, Kunle Remi, Genoveva Umeh, Deyemi Okanlawon, Linda Ejiofor, Mercy Aigbe, Norbert Young, Adam Garba and Abba Ali Zaky.
Since its release, The Herd has drawn mixed reactions, with some viewers calling for its removal from Netflix, while others defend it as a realistic portrayal of Nigeria’s insecurity challenges.
