In a biographical movie honoring his legacy, Nollywood actor Antar Laniyan and comedian Debo Adedayo, popularly known as Mr. Macaroni, play the legendary figure of Awujale of Ijebu Kingdom, Oba Sikiru Kayode Adetona Ogbagba II. Mr. Macaroni portrays the young Awujale, while Laniyan represents the experienced ruler.
The movie, “Awujale,” will make its debut to commemorate the 64th anniversary of the monarch’s coronation. Producing under the direction of Tunde Olaoye and supervised by Seun Oloketuyi, the ensemble stars renowned performers including Yemi Sodimu, Aisha Lawal, Dayo Amusan, Nifemi Lawal, and Sola Sobowale.
In the teaser, a resolute Awujale is seen announcing to the soldiers his independence and his right to roam without authorization.From what we can see, the film explores the monarch’s struggles both before and during his coronation, providing a moving account of his life’s journey.
Oloketuyi attributes the movie’s inception to a musician from Fuji who encouraged him to read works of literature about the king. He was intrigued by a specific book, which inspired the making of this movie.
The record for the longest reigning king in Nigeria is Oba Adetona. This April release biopic is probably inspired by the ideas presented in the book “Awujale: The Autobiography of Oba S.K Adetona Ogbagba II.”
Even in the face of criticism, the Awujale of Ijebuland, who is described in the book as a man of unflinching integrity, is respected for his candor. Although there are others who might disagree, the story highlights the important occasions and difficulties the king has faced since taking the throne in 1960.
In January 1959, Prince Adetona took the throne upon the request of the Anikinaiya Ruling House, following the death of his predecessor, Oba Daniel Gbelegbuwa.
Prince Adetona had intended to pursue a career in the United Kingdom, but one of the main requirements for eligibility was that he was born during the reign of his predecessor.
Though many individuals applied, the Anikilaiya Ruling House was chosen through a biased process. There were only two Abidagbas still alive among the contestants, and Prince Rufail Adetona—the father of Sikiru Kayode Adetona—was one of them.
Prince Adetona answered the call and went back to his roots to take on the role of leader, even though he was distant from home and engrossed in his career. His unexpected ascent to the throne from the UK represents the complex interactions between modernity and tradition, which shape the future of the Ijebu society.
The exact date of the film’s April debut has not yet been revealed. Furthermore, it’s yet unclear if the biopic will premiere on streaming services or in theaters. Still, we are looking forward to seeing it and are prepared to write a review as soon as it is made public.
