Lagos Court Orders Amazon and Gangs of Lagos Producer to Apologize for Cultural Misrepresentation

In a landmark ruling, the Lagos State High Court has ordered Amazon and the producer of the controversial movie Gangs of Lagos to issue a formal apology to the Isale Eko Descendants Union (IDU) for misrepresenting the cultural heritage and traditions of Lagos indigenes. The court’s decision comes after a legal battle sparked by the film’s portrayal of Lagos’ politics, street power, and the violent lifestyle in certain parts of the city.

Court Ruling: Apology and Acknowledgment of Cultural Misrepresentation

On March 12, 2025, Justice Idowu Alakija of the Lagos High Court ruled that the film had erroneously depicted the cultural heritage of the Isale Eko people. The movie’s portrayal of the community’s traditions and the Eyo Masquerade was deemed inaccurate and disparaging, prompting the court to order an apology.

The ruling also confirmed the terms of settlement agreed upon by the Isale Eko Descendants Union (IDU), Amazon, and 11 other defendants. As part of the settlement, Amazon is required to issue an official letter acknowledging that Gangs of Lagos misrepresented the cultural significance of Isale Eko’s traditions and apologize to the applicants.

Background of the Controversy

Released in April 2023, Gangs of Lagos stirred controversy due to its gritty depiction of Lagos’ political scene and street culture, focusing on the violent and criminal elements in certain neighborhoods. The film drew significant backlash from the Lagos State Government and the Isale Eko Descendants Union (IDU), who argued that it was a mockery of the city’s rich heritage.

In response to the film, the Lagos State Commissioner for Tourism, Arts and Culture, Uzamat Akinbile-Yussuf, criticized the movie for disrespecting Lagos’ cultural identity. The IDU, which represents the indigenous people of Isale Eko, subsequently filed a lawsuit demanding N10 billion in damages for the misrepresentation.

Amazon’s Defense and Court’s Final Verdict

Amazon initially contested the lawsuit, arguing that Lagos State lacked the constitutional authority to censor films produced within its jurisdiction and sought the dismissal of the case. However, the court ruled in favor of the IDU, emphasizing the importance of protecting the cultural rights of indigenous communities.

IDU Chairman Reacts to the Victory

Following the court’s ruling, Adeniyi Kazeem, SAN, Chairman of the IDU, expressed his satisfaction with the judgment, calling it a significant victory for the Isale Eko community and all indigenous Lagosians.

“Today is a great day for the Isale Eko community of Lagos State, all Lagos indigenous communities, and Lagosians in general. We have firmly established that, alongside other rights, there are inalienable cultural rights that must be vigorously protected,” Kazeem said.

This ruling sets a precedent for the protection of cultural rights and heritage, ensuring that such communities are not unfairly portrayed or exploited in popular media.