On Monday, Ekiti State Governor Biodun Oyebanji made a solidarity visit to the film set of the upcoming historical epic Kiriji (also known as the Ekiti-Parapo War), currently being shot across various locations in Ado-Ekiti. The visit underscores the governor’s commitment to preserving and promoting the state’s rich cultural heritage through arts and creative initiatives.
The film, produced by Nollywood actor and filmmaker Lateef Adedimeji and his wife, actress and producer Adebimpe Oyebade (Mo Bimpe), through their company AL Notions Film, chronicles the 16-year Ekiti-Parapo War (1877–1893), a pivotal conflict among Yoruba sub-ethnic groups. The war pitted eastern Yoruba communities, including Ekiti, Ijesa, and Ijebu, against western forces primarily from Ibadan and Oyo.
Lateef Adedimeji, in a heartfelt Instagram post, described the visit as deeply honoring. 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.
His personal visit to the sets and his unwavering support for arts, culture and history reflect visionary leadership and a deep commitment to Ekiti’s heritage. This gesture and encouragement further strengthens our resolve and determination to deliver a world class production that faithfully tells the story of the resilience and shows the culture and heritage of the Ekiti people and the entire Yoruba tribe.”
The film is expected to be a major cultural milestone, celebrating Ekiti’s resilience and Yoruba heritage while positioning the state as a hub for creative excellence.
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