The news is abuzz with the Federal Government’s recent move to ban the depiction of money rituals and the glamorization of vices in Nollywood films. While the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) claims this is to protect viewers, particularly young adults, from negative influences, I can’t help but feel this is a case of misplaced priorities and artistic censorship.
What They Are They Saying
Does Nollywood Censorship Address Real Problems?
The news is abuzz with the Federal Government’s recent move to ban the depiction of money rituals and the glamorization of vices in Nollywood films. While the National Film and Video Censors Board (NFVCB) claims this is to protect viewers, particularly young adults, from negative influences, I can’t help but feel this is a case of misplaced priorities and artistic censorship.
What They Are They Saying
Husseini said that today, we are facing an industry emergency requiring bold and ambitious actions from all parents, guardians and stakeholders.
“When my predecessor approached the former Minister of Information, Alhaji Lai Muhammed on the need to make a subsidiary legislation to curtail the display of smoking in Nigerian movies, he saw the need to include money rituals.
“Others included in the regulation are ritual killings and glamorising other crimes to further sanitise the film industry.
Husseini said the sensitisation programme was to educate stakeholders on the danger inherent in the consummation of smoking in Nigerian movies.
Why It Matters
I wholeheartedly support the ban on money rituals in movies, particularly those put out by the so-called “Asabawood” industry. Their stereotypical portrayal of Igbo culture as obsessed with wealth through ritualistic means is not only offensive but demonstrably untrue. Movies like “Afamefuna” have beautifully challenged this narrative, and that’s the direction Nollywood should be taking.
However, the government’s broad stroke approach feels heavy-handed. Nollywood, a shining example of Nigerian creativity, has thrived despite minimal government support. It’s the third largest film industry in the world, a testament to its talent and resilience.
Isn’t there more pressing business for our leaders to attend to? Shouldn’t they be focusing on issues like infrastructure and security, areas where Nigerians truly need help?
However, the government’s focus on smoking and other vices in films feels misguided. Firstly, most Nollywood movies are aimed at mature audiences and carry appropriate ratings. Adults watching these films are capable of discerning satire from reality. Secondly, smoking exists in real life, and films often use it as a character trait, not an endorsement. Do we see Hollywood or Bollywood films removing cigarettes because people smoke in real life?
The government seems to be missing the point. Nollywood should be regulated, but not in ways that stifle its artistic expression. Where’s the focus on protecting actors’ safety? The recent tragic death of Junior Pope due to negligence on set is a stark reminder of the industry’s shortcomings.
Let’s address the real problems: sex-for-roles scandals, intellectual property theft, and the lack of proper risk management. These are the issues that plague Nollywood, not fictional portrayals of smoking.
Bottom Line
Nollywood doesn’t need a nanny state. It needs an intelligent and engaged partner in the government, one that understands the power of film and supports its potential to entertain, educate, and challenge us. Let’s focus on fostering a responsible and thriving Nollywood, not censoring its creative expression.
