Actor Lateef Adedimeji has explained why his new historical film is being shot in Ekiti State, following a visit to the set by Governor Biodun Oyebanji.
Taking to his Instagram page on Wednesday, the 41-year-old shared photos from the visit with the cast and crew. He wrote, “My wife and I and the entire production crew and casts were deeply honoured by the solidarity visit of his Excellency, Governor Biodun Oyebanji @biodunaoyebanji to the film location sets of our new project in Ekiti State.”
He added that the governor’s visit reflected his interest in arts, culture and history and strengthened the team’s resolve to deliver a film that tells the story of Ekiti and the wider Yoruba heritage.
Earlier, Oyebanji toured multiple locations in Ado Ekiti where the Kiriji War (Ekiti Parapo War) film is being shot by Lateef and his wife and producer, Mo Bimpe Adedimeji. The film tells the story of the Kiriji War, a 16-year conflict from 1877 to 1893 between western Yoruba forces, mainly from Ibadan and Oyo, and eastern Yoruba groups including Ekiti, Ijesa, and Ijebu.
Speaking with journalists, Oyebanji said his administration is committed to preserving Ekiti’s history for future generations. He clarified that the state government did not sponsor the project but supported it through friends and associates interested in promoting Ekiti culture.
“Art, culture and tourism is one of the pillars of our administration,” the governor said. “History plays a key role in identity and development. Part of our history is what is being shot here into a film now, and I just came to look at the locations. This has been a big surprise. I must thank the Adedimejis for a job well done.”
Lateef Adedimeji said shooting in Ekiti ensures authenticity in telling the story. About 500 actors were cast for the film, many from the state. He described Ekiti as peaceful and suitable for large-scale production, and said viewers familiar with historical accounts would recognize the film as a reflection of events during the war.
