A Lagos State High Court has ruled that Amazon and the producers of Gangs of Lagos must apologize to the Isale Eko Descendants Union (IDU) for misrepresenting their cultural heritage and traditions.
The 2023 film, which depicted street violence and political thuggery in Lagos, was criticized by both the Lagos State government and IDU for mocking the city’s heritage, particularly the revered Eyo Masquerade.
IDU had filed a lawsuit demanding ₦10 billion in damages, while Amazon argued that Lagos lacked the authority to censor films.
However, Justice Idowu Alakija upheld a settlement agreement among the parties and mandated an apology acknowledging the film’s misrepresentation. IDU Chairman Adeniyi Kazeem praised the ruling, emphasizing the importance of protecting indigenous cultural rights.
