April 13, (THEWILL) – Nigerian rapper, Olanrewaju Ogunmefun David, aka Vector, has stated that it is disrespectful to define Eyo as a gang.
He made this known while condemning the portrayal of the Eyo masquerade as murderous criminals in the movie, ‘Gang of Lagos’.
The movie, which was released on Amazon’s Prime Video on April 7, was produced by Kemi Lala Akindoju, and directed by Jade Osiberu.
The film is enjoying good reception in some parts of the world but has come under intense criticism in Lagos.
Airing his view, Vector shared a video on his Instagram page where he educated people on the culture and tradition of the Eyo festival.
“I was born at the Onikan health centre, lafiaji, Lagos Island.
“All I have seen during the Eyo festival every time they’re out is, they stop by at ours and prayed, wishing prosperity for my family.
“Most of my friends like the Olugbanis, who are direct Eyo Ologede gatekeepers, are not gun-shooting criminals using culture as a disguise.
“As teenagers, I’ve had friends (underneath the regalia) chase me with the staff (Opambata) because I knew they would take advantage and show me shege, lol.
“My idea of what the Bajulaiye is is totally different from murderous criminality. Going by what the term gang means, it is disrespectful to define the Eyo in the same light.
“In light of what I’ve experienced about Eyo, I wish prosperity on the hands that laboured. Although the movie would still be good without referring to Eyo as a (criminal) gang in Lagos.
“Eyo is not a criminal organisation,” he stated.
