A shocking allegation has been made by Chief Olalere Osunpaimo, a respected veteran of the theatre industry and a national honouree. He claims that certain individuals and a production company are attempting to remake his iconic film, 'Ogbori Elemoso', without his consent, sparking a controversial and complex legal battle.
Chief Osunpaimo, known affectionately as Eda Onile Ola, shared his story with journalists at a recent press conference. He revealed that he was approached by the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, who proposed a remake of the historic movie. After initial discussions, Osunpaimo estimated the production cost at around ₦100 million, and the monarch expressed interest in expanding the budget and revising the script. However, the situation took an unexpected turn.
In October 2025, a man named Ben Ayoola, popularly known as Ben O Ben, along with representatives from Fewchore Studio, visited Osunpaimo's residence. They boldly declared that they had the Soun's approval to remake the film, disregarding the need for Osunpaimo's consent. "They told me they didn't need my permission and that they were there to give me a 'gift'," Osunpaimo recalled.
The situation became more complex when Fewchore Studio paid Osunpaimo ₦7.5 million, a move his children strongly opposed, describing it as manipulation. Osunpaimo, acting on his children's advice, promptly returned the money. His legal team then issued a cease-and-desist letter, but the alleged threats and defiance from the other party continued.
"They even said that if I went to court, I wouldn't get justice," Osunpaimo alleged.
The renowned actor and filmmaker, who received the prestigious national honour of Member of the Order of the Federal Republic (MFR) for his work on 'Ogbori Elemoso', shared the personal sacrifices he made during the film's production. He spoke of the heavy debts he incurred and the seizure of his car due to the loans he took out to complete the film, emphasizing that this work was meant to secure his children's future, not to be taken away by powerful individuals.
Osunpaimo has appealed for urgent intervention from the Oyo State Government, traditional leaders, and religious figures, including Governor Seyi Makinde and Pastor E. A. Adeboye, whom he considers the spiritual father of the Soun of Ogbomoso. He pleaded, "I call upon people of goodwill, the sons and daughters of Ogbomoso, both at home and abroad, and all well-meaning Nigerians to rescue me from this cheating and the destruction of my legacy."
He also expressed concern over recent rumors of his death circulating on social media, suggesting a potential connection to the ongoing dispute.
Chief Osunpaimo concluded his statement by urging authorities, especially the Oyo State Commissioner of Police, to intervene and ensure justice. He emphasized, "Please don't let this injustice happen to me at my age."
This case raises important questions about intellectual property rights, consent, and the power dynamics within the film industry. What are your thoughts on this controversial situation? Feel free to share your opinions and engage in a respectful discussion in the comments below.
