Entertainment
How My Late Sister Influenced My New Movie,”OLAKITAN”-Producer,Gbolahan Adetayo Tells City People Magazine
“How My Late Sister Influenced My New Movie,”OLAKITAN”-Producer,Gbolahan Adetayo Tells City People Magazine
Have you heard of the new wave-making movie titled, ‘Olakitan’? It’s the new Yoruba movie that’s making quite some impact in the industry right now. The movie features top stars such as Lateef Adedimeji, Madam Saje and a host of others. As of last week, after just a few weeks of its release, it’s recorded close to 100k views on Youtube.
This standout movie with a gripping storyline was produced by a hardworking journalist and one of the industry’s most creative minds, Gbolahan Adetayo.
This is not his first movie production. He ventured into the business of movie-making years back and produced his debut movie, ‘Aala Ife’ which also did reasonably well. Encouraged by the modest success of Aala Ife, Gbolahan, who was one of City People’s strongest editorial hands, has gone on to build an impressive stable from which his movies are now produced.
Last week, City People’s Senior Editor, WALE LAWAL (08037209290) got Gbolahan to speak about Olakitan and reveal the pain and inspiration behind the compelling storyline that everyone is talking about.
Tell us about the storyline, what’s it about? And what inspired the storyline?
Olakitan is a movie that talks about a young man, who forcefully brings his friend who lives abroad back into the country for property investments but his selfish desires in the acquisition eventually ruin his life. Meanwhile, this is a total stranger he met on social media.
And what inspired the storyline?
The truth of the matter is that I lost my sister in 2018, her name is Olaitan Rachael Adetutu Adetayo Sorinola. She is someone I loved so much. I had a baby girl in November 2019, whom I named after my sister. So, I was thinking on a script to do for my late sister in her memory, I wrote Olaitan Obinrin Ogun, a fantastic and multi-million naira movie which at the moment, I don’t have the money to shoot and I don’t like taking loans. My heart was heavy to do a movie in her name. On that faithful day, I wouldn’t know if I was sleeping or I was in a trance, she appeared to me and she narrated the storyline, and titled it Olaoluwakitan. They killed me thinking that I have gone but I am back through you. Then my wife was pregnant. So, when she put to bed, I named the baby girl after her and shot the movie the following year. This was the reason I called it Olakitan. They succeeded in killing her in her first lifetime but now, she’s Olakitan Obinrin Ogun. Watch out for that movie from my stable
That’s very deep. So, did you write the storyline and put the script together yourself?
Due to my primary job as a journalist, I was busy with my journalism duties, I couldn’t script it myself, so I spoke with a scriptwriter on phone, his name is Femi Adefioye. I narrated the story to him and after a week, my script was ready. I shot the movie on September 20th 2020 but it’s rather unfortunate that the movie couldn’t hit the shelves until a year and three months
Why did it take so long after the movie was shot before it was released into the market?
Initially, I planned to release the movie two weeks after the production, but the editor messed himself up. He lost the audio and he couldn’t tell me, he used camera audio and of course, that will automatically produce noise. The guy was using it as an opportunity to extort me until I got furious and I gave the job to another reliable and credible editor
Olakitan paraded quite an impressive assemblage of star actors. Give us a roll call of some of the top actors that featured in the movie.
We have the likes of Lateef Adedimeji, Fausat Balogun popularly called Madam Saje, Obatidey, Kiki Bakare, Kitan Bukunola, Titilayo Akinwale, Olasunkanmi Akanni Olohuniyo, Tope Saint Okemesi, Omolara Kasali, Omo VC, Majekodunmi Emmanuel, Lookman Adewale Luyek, and many more.
You said you had difficulty raising money to shoot the movie, how then were you able to attract such high profile stars if you had a very lean budget for the movie?
Olaitan Obinrin Ogun is another film entirely, which I may probably produce before December 2022. It is a big-budget movie with almost 4 parts. Back to the question. Any actor who has ever featured In any of my movies will confirm to you that I have never worked with them without paying despite my closeness with virtually all of them and my status as a journalist promoting some of them when they were still upcoming. Now, how do I work? Every movie from my stable must have a budget, after that, I will send the script and money to the director. He will be the one to coordinate, invite the actor, pay them and direct the job. I have never for once call an actor by myself and negotiate with him before he appears in my films. The reason is that I respect myself a lot and I don’t take nonsense from anybody, no matter your rank. Till tomorrow, I still see myself as a journalist, not a producer or actor. If I call them myself to feature in my movies, some of them may say they are already booked for that period. Now, two things are involved in that lie. The first one is that, if they tell me the actual amount they wish to collect to feature in movies which is totally different from what we read on pages of newspapers, they believe that I may publish it as a journalist. Secondly, because of our relationship, they wouldn’t want to give me their fee, they will rather say I am not available for that date. So, I took the decision of not inviting or negotiating with any actor in 2017 when I produced my debut flick, Aala Ife.
Why did you go into movie production?
I am blessed with story ideas. I normally write scripts and give them to some of my actor friends. Sometimes I lead the team when we do script conferences. I did one for an actress who is now a star. She produced the film and obstinately refused to include my name as part of the film’s creative team. She was to credit me by saying story by or screenplay by Gbolahan Adetayo simply because as at then, we were at loggerheads. I was furious. Meanwhile, Aala Ife script was ready. I already planned the script but based on what she did, I changed my mind. I called my friend cum director, Okiki Afolayan, I asked what it would cost me to produce a movie and he told me. I gave him the script and I transferred the money to him. Today, the rest is history. Use the link below to watch the movie for free:
Entertainment
Remembering Afeez Adeshina “Destiny Boy” : A Life of Promise, Music, And Quiet Impact ~ 1ST ELEVEN9JA TV
Remembering Afeez Adeshina “Destiny Boy” : A Life of Promise, Music, And Quiet Impact ~ 1ST ELEVEN9JA TV
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
The Nigerian music scene is mourning the loss of Afeez Adeshina Ayinde, popularly known as Destiny Boy, whose passing has left a deep sense of grief among family, friends, and fans. Though his life was brief, his story is one marked by determination, creativity, and a steady rise driven by passion rather than noise. Destiny Boy passed away on January 17, 2026, at the age of 22, cutting short a journey that many believed was only just beginning.
Early Life And Background :
Afeez Adeshina was born on june 24, 2003, into the Adeshina family of Odo Rori Compound, Ayetoro Yewa, Ogun State, Nigeria. He was the son of Mr. Adeshina Kamorudeen and Mrs. Saidat Adeshina, raised within a close-knit family environment that shaped his values and character.
From an early age, Afeez was known for his calm demeanor and respectful nature. Those who grew up around him often describe him as gentle, focused, and quietly ambitious. Music became an outlet through which he expressed himself, long before public recognition followed. What began as interest and experimentation gradually turned into purpose.
Music Career And Creative Journey :
Known professionally as Destiny Boy, Afeez carved out his place in music through persistence rather than spectacle. He was deeply passionate about his craft and committed to growth, often collaborating and featuring in songs and music videos across Nigeria and beyond.
While he may not have been the loudest voice in the room, Destiny Boy earned respect for his work ethic and humility. He approached music with seriousness, seeing it not just as entertainment but as a path to building something meaningful. Colleagues and collaborators consistently describe him as hardworking, disciplined, and eager to learn — traits that set him apart in an industry often defined by fast success and fleeting attention.
His presence in multiple projects across different platforms reflected a steady upward movement. For many young creatives, Destiny Boy represented the quiet grind: showing up, improving, and letting the work speak.
Family Life And Personal Milestones :
Beyond music, Afeez embraced responsibility early in life. He got married to Oluwatoyin Adeshina, and their union was blessed with a son, Adeshina Usman Obatide, born on November 12, 2024. Becoming a husband and father added new depth to his life, grounding him further and reshaping his priorities.
Those close to him speak of his devotion to family and his desire to build a stable future. Balancing personal life with creative ambition was not always easy, but Afeez carried these responsibilities with maturity well beyond his years.
His Passing :
The news of Destiny Boy’s death on January 17, 2026, came as a shock to many. At just 22 years old, his passing raised a collective sense of loss — not only for what he had achieved, but for the potential that remained unrealized.
While details surrounding his death have been kept private, the impact has been deeply felt across his immediate community and within creative circles. Tributes have highlighted not only his music but his character: kind-hearted, respectful, and sincere.
Burial Arrangements :
The Adeshina family has announced that Afeez Adeshina Ayinde (Destiny Boy) will be laid to rest on:
Friday, January 23, 2026 :
Time : 2:00 PM
Venue : His father’s residence, Odo Rori Compound, Ayetoro Yewa, Ogun State
Family members, friends, colleagues, and well-wishers are expected to gather to pay their final respects and celebrate a life that, though short, left a meaningful imprint.
A Legacy Beyond Numbers :
Destiny Boy’s story is not one measured by chart positions or awards, but by consistency, humility, and quiet influence. He represented a generation of young Nigerian creatives navigating ambition, responsibility, and identity in real time.
In remembering Afeez Adeshina, many will recall a young man who showed up for his craft, valued his family, and treated people with respect. His journey serves as a reminder that impact is not always loud — sometimes, it is built patiently, one step at a time.
As he is laid to rest, his music, memories, and the lives he touched remain.
May his soul rest in perfect peace.
Entertainment
Benin Summit Group Congratulates Rema, Shallipopi for Flying the Benin Flag at AFRIMMA Awards
Benin Summit Group Congratulates Rema, Shallipopi for Flying the Benin Flag at AFRIMMA Awards
The Chairman-in-Council of the Benin Summit Group, Earl Osaro Onaiwu, has congratulated celebrated music stars Rema and Shallipopi for their outstanding achievements at the recently concluded AFRIMMA Awards, where they emerged as shining ambassadors of the Benin Kingdom on the global entertainment stage.
Rema, ( Divine Justice Ikubor) the internationally acclaimed Afrobeats sensation of Benin extraction, carted home three prestigious awards, while fast-rising artiste Shallipopi ( Crown Uzama) also clinched one award, marking a moment of pride not just for Edo State but for the entire Benin Kingdom.
In a statement issued by the Benin Summit Group, Osaro Onaiwu described their victories as a powerful demonstration of Benin excellence, creativity, and global relevance.
“I commend and congratulate Rema and Shallipopi for putting the Benin Kingdom firmly in the global space through their talent, hard work, and discipline. Their achievements are a source of pride to our people and an inspiration to our youths,” Onaiwu said.
He noted that the success of Benin sons in the global entertainment industry reinforces the importance of nurturing creativity and supporting young talents across music, film, fashion, and other creative arts.
“These accomplishments show what is possible when talent meets opportunity and determination. Benin land is rich in creativity, and the world is beginning to take notice,” he added.
Osaro Onaiwu further urged other Benin sons and daughters, particularly those in the creative and entertainment sectors, to remain focused and strive for excellence, emphasizing that global recognition comes through consistency, hard work, and commitment to craft.
“I urge others to strive harder to excel. Let the achievements of Rema and Shallipopi motivate the next generation to dream bigger, work harder, and represent Benin with dignity and pride wherever they find themselves,” he said.
He reaffirmed the commitment of the Benin Summit Group to promoting unity, culture, and development, including the creative arts, which he described as a powerful tool for projecting the Benin heritage and identity to the world.
According to Onaiwu, celebrating the successes of Benin sons and daughters across various fields remains central to the group’s mission of fostering unity, pride, and collective progress within the Benin Kingdom and the diaspora.
Why Everyone Is Talking About GICANA: The New Nigerian Drama Shaking YouTube
A powerful new Nigerian drama, GICANA, has made its debut during the Yuletide season, sending a strong social message while keeping audiences glued to their screens. The film, now streaming on Mustapha Sholagbade Television (MSTV) on YouTube, explores the dangerous consequences of transacting one’s body for money, portraying it as a risky game with far-reaching emotional and moral implications.
Produced by Almatin Limited, GICANA is directed by the creative duo of Olayemi Adeodu and Ayanbode Simon. The directors bring depth and realism to the story, carefully unpacking themes of desperation, survival, greed, and the silent battles faced by individuals pushed to the edge by circumstance.
The movie, which was shot in Canada and Nigeria, boasts a rich ensemble of industry talents who delivered compelling performances, including Remi Surutu, Dotun Adebanjo, Mustapha Sholagbade, Bukola Kiitan, Temidayo (Starboy), Dare Melody, Jumoke Fadipe, Queen Blessing Ebigieson, Adejoke Adesokan, and several others. Their performances added emotional weight and authenticity to the storyline, making GICANA both engaging and thought-provoking.
Behind the scenes, the production quality of GICANA stands out. Cinematography was handled by Director Keny and Abiodun Bukola, while Mr Perfect served as script supervisor. Sound was recorded by Idrissound, with lighting by Tomcity. Makeup was expertly done by Ifeoluwa Adejumo, and Muhammed Hussein brought the film’s environments to life as set designer.
Released at a time traditionally associated with celebration and reflection, GICANA uses the Yuletide season to challenge viewers to think deeply about societal pressures and the hidden dangers of quick money. The film is already generating conversations online, with viewers praising its message, performances, and strong moral undertone.
With its timely release and compelling narrative, GICANA is more than just a movie, it is a cautionary tale and a must-watch drama for audiences seeking meaningful African storytelling this new year.
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