Veteran actor Lere Paimo has raised concerns over an alleged plan to reshoot his classic film Ogbori Elemoso without his consent.
Speaking at a press conference in Ibadan on Wednesday, Lere said the move would violate his intellectual property rights. He explained that the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, had earlier asked him about the cost of remaking the historical play to make it globally acceptable. He said he quoted N100 million and was awaiting a response.
Lere alleged that while waiting, a film producer, Ben Ayoola, also known as Ben O Ben, and others visited his home and informed him that they already had the monarch’s approval to proceed without his permission.
“They told me they had already obtained permission from Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye to remake Ogbori Elemoso and that my consent was no longer required,” he said.
He further claimed that the group said they only wanted to give him a “gift” for the original work and paid N7.5 million into his account. According to him, his children rejected the payment, describing it as “manipulation and robbery,” and he later returned the money to Fewchore Studio.
Lere said his lawyer issued a cease and desist letter, but the producers insisted they had royal backing and warned him that he would not get justice even if he went to court.
Describing the original film as a product of deep sacrifice, Lere said it brought him national recognition, including the MFR honour, but left him in debt.
“I suffered greatly to produce this movie. I incurred heavy debts, and my car was even seized because of the loans I took to complete the project,” he said.
He appealed to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God and other influential Nigerians to intervene and protect his legacy.
