In addition to the incredibly amazing casting of Gangs of Lagos, the movie does a good job trying to depict a semblance of Nigeria’s political culture and the lives of everyday people.
Gangs of Lagos follows the story of Obalola, played by Tobi Bakre, who seemed destined to live a life of thuggery, violence, and servitude to politicians who continue to take from the poor to better their own lives—without any regard for making real change or improving the people’s situation.
On the other hand, Gangs of Lagos also tells the story of a mother who was willing to do anything and went to great lengths to ensure that her only son did not end up the same way her husband did—dead as a result of gang violence.
There’s also a friendship story in the mix, alongside betrayal, loyalty, and heartbreak. But the most prevalent story is that of Obalola (Tobi Bakre), Gift (played by Adesua Etomi-Wellington), and Panama (played by Chike).
The Mothers and Fathers in Gangs of Lagos
Iyabo Ojo barely made any appearances—in fact, she hardly had up to three scenes in the movie—but she did a good job depicting a mother who did everything to change or alter the destiny of her only son. Even though this was portrayed almost like an abusive streak, within the context of Nigerian customs, the rituals performed hold deep cultural beliefs and testimonies that back them. In a sad turn, Iyabo Ojo’s character in Gangs of Lagos eventually gave up on her son.
Another mother in the story is Mama Ify, played by Chioma Akpotha, who gave us one of the most emotionally grounded performances in the movie.
Cast of Gangs of Lagos
The cast of Gangs of Lagos was pretty packed, with celebrities, Nollywood OGs, new faces, musicians, and all-round great performers.
Some of the standout performances came from cast members who didn’t even have major screen time. People like Zlatan brought a gritty street authenticity, and Bimbo Ademoye—as always—was unforgettable. Even Pasuma, in a rare dramatic role, was surprisingly convincing.
Main Cast:
- Tobi Bakre as Obalola
- Adesua Etomi-Wellington as Gift
- Chike-Ezekpeazu Osebuka as Panama
- Zlatan Ibile as Kash
- Bimbo Ademoye as Teni
- Yinka Quadri as Baba
- Pasuma as London
- Olarotimi Fakunle as Kazeem
- Chioma Akpotha as Mama Ify
- Iyabo Ojo as Mama Obalola
The Controversies That Had Everyone Talking
Gangs of Lagos didn’t just trend because of its cast or storyline—this movie stirred real-life controversy, especially among traditional leaders and Lagosians. Here’s why. When Gangs of Lagos dropped, it wasn’t just the streets of Isale Eko that lit up—real-life leaders, indigenes, and fans had a lot to say. While the film garnered praise for its acting, storytelling, and production, it also drew criticism for one major reason: its portrayal of Lagos and the Eyo tradition.
1. Eyo Masquerade Portrayal: Culture or Disrespect?
One of the loudest controversies came from the way the movie depicted the Eyo masquerade—a sacred cultural symbol in Lagos. In Gangs of Lagos, the Eyo was portrayed as a symbol tied to street gangs and political thuggery.
This didn’t sit well with the Lagos State Government and Isale Eko indigenes, who felt the film disrespected a cultural heritage that is deeply rooted in tradition and dignity. In fact, the Isale Eko Descendants’ Union threatened legal action against the filmmakers for what they called a “defamation of culture.”
2. Lagos State Government’s Reaction
The Lagos State Government released an official statement condemning the portrayal of the Eyo festival and the cultural elements tied to Lagos Island. They emphasized that the Eyo is not a gang symbol but part of a revered festival that has spiritual and historical significance.
They called the film’s depiction “derogatory” and stated that it gave a false narrative of the tradition and the people it represents.
3. Audience Divide: Realism vs. Respect
While some viewers applauded Gangs of Lagos for showing the “real Lagos”—complete with political puppeteering, street justice, and culture being used as a tool of control—others felt that art crossed the line into cultural insensitivity.
This sparked a wider debate: Where do we draw the line between artistic freedom and cultural respect? Can filmmakers be blamed for portraying a version of reality that actually mirrors the political manipulation many have witnessed in Lagos?
4. The Conversation It Sparked
Controversy aside, Gangs of Lagos succeeded in one area—it got people talking. It sparked discussions about:
- The intersection of culture and crime
- The hidden politics behind traditional institutions
- The role of film in documenting uncomfortable truths
Whether you agree with the film or not, it undeniably opened a new chapter in how Nollywood approaches gritty, urban storytelling.
