The film was meant to be a landmark for Nollywood on streaming. Gangs of Lagos, released on Amazon Prime Video in April 2023, was the platform’s first Nigerian original film. Within days, it was also the subject of a formal complaint from Lagos traditional leaders, who said it insulted Isale Eko and the Eyo masquerade.
The story, director and cast
The film follows three friends who grow up in Isale Eko, an old district of Lagos Island, and become drawn into gang life, politics and violence. The film was directed by Jadesola Osiberu, a producer and director known for Isoken and the series Sugar Rush. Her company, Greoh Studios, produced it. The cast included Tobi Bakre, Adesua Etomi, Chike, Iyabo Ojo and Olarotimi Fakunle.
Amazon Prime Video invested in African content around this time, signing deals with Nigerian production companies.
The Eyo controversy
The Eyo masquerade is a sacred Lagos tradition. The film featured characters in Eyo costumes committing violent acts, which the Lagos State Council of Obas and Chiefs said was disrespectful. Some called for the film to be withdrawn. Residents and leaders of Isale Eko objected to the portrayal of their community as a centre of crime.
The filmmakers said the film was fiction and not intended to offend. The controversy drew attention to the tension between creative freedom and respect for culture.
Reception and Amazon's retreat
The film was praised by some critics for its action and production quality and criticised by others for its plot. The film’s release showed both the opportunities and risks of global streaming for Nigerian filmmakers. Amazon later scaled back its African original content plans, a move that disappointed many filmmakers. Lagos Island, with its crowded streets, markets and old neighbourhoods, has become a popular setting for Nigerian crime dramas, which often explore links between street gangs and politicians.
The soundtrack and Osiberu's other work
The film featured music by Nigerian artists, adding to its local feel. Osiberu has produced several successful Nigerian films and series and is regarded as one of the country’s most commercially minded filmmakers, helping to bring Nollywood stories to international streaming audiences. Gangs of Lagos was meant to show Nollywood’s ambition on a global platform. It ended up showing how closely Lagos guards the traditions it holds sacred.
