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
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
Top Music Producer, Gbenga Leo Marks 45 Years in Music with Lagos Celebration
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Otunba Gbenga, popularly known as Leo Taiwo, will be celebrated for his 45-year journey in the music industry at a special event scheduled for Tuesday, May 5, 2026, in Lagos.
The event, set to hold at the Radio Lagos Marquee Hall in Agidingbi, Ikeja, is expected to bring together friends, family, and associates to honour a career defined by longevity and consistent contribution to Nigeria’s Fuji music scene.
Though not widely in the public spotlight, Leo Taiwo is regarded within industry circles as a respected figure whose work has spanned decades. His role as a music producer and collaborator has positioned him among the quiet contributors who have supported the growth and continuity of Fuji music over the years.
The celebration is slated to begin at 2 p.m., with guests expected to observe a white dress code. Attendance will be by access card, with caps and gele serving as entry identifiers.
Fuji star King Sule Alao Malaika is billed to lead the music for the occasion, while popular hosts Ifankaleluyah and Tokunbo Marvins will anchor proceedings.
The choice of venue underscores the cultural relevance of the event. Radio Lagos has long been associated with the promotion of indigenous music, making it a fitting location for a milestone rooted in tradition and legacy.
Reaching 45 years in any creative industry is a notable achievement. In a genre that has evolved across generations, such longevity reflects both resilience and sustained relevance.
As preparations continue, the event is shaping up to be not just a celebration of one man’s journey, but also a moment to acknowledge the enduring community behind Fuji music.
Entertainment
BREAKING NEWS: Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy
*BREAKING NEWS
*Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo Crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 – A Triumph of Talent, Leadership, and Philanthropy*
Lagos, Nigeria – In a stunning display of talent, leadership, and philanthropy, Amb. Chelsea RC Nwodo has been crowned winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award. This remarkable achievement cements her status as a powerhouse in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Amb. Chelsea Nwodo, the newly crowned NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026, has extended her heartfelt gratitude to all who supported her in this remarkable achievement.
“I am overwhelmed with joy and gratitude to announce that I have been crowned the winner of the prestigious NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 award,” Amb. Nwodo said. “I want to express my sincere appreciation to everyone who voted for me, including my loving family members and TOSA to NAGA , I am honored to be part of this prestigious award and I appreciate the recognition.”
Amb. Nwodo, a multifaceted personality, has proven herself as an acclaimed actress, dedicated philanthropist, and visionary business leader. Her exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood has earned her the respect and admiration of her peers.
As CEO of the Chelsea Nwodo Foundation, she drives transformative initiatives empowering women and children, fostering growth and opportunity. Her leadership skills extends to Chy-kas Travels and Tour, showcasing her entrepreneurial acumen.
Recently appointed Chief of Staff to the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, Amb. Nwodo’s exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing Nollywood is undeniable.
Amb. Nwodo’s philanthropy resonates deeply. Her impactful “Operation Feed 5000 Street Children” program, in partnership with Regal Connect Foundation-Ghana, delivered food, shelter, and skills training to vulnerable children in Ghana, attracting high-profile support.
Her NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA 2026 win celebrates not just her achievements but her dedication to uplifting others, making her a beacon of hope across industries. This recognition solidifies her position as a role model and influencer, inspiring a new generation of artists and entrepreneurs.
The NAGA Nollywood FACE OF AFRICA award is a testament to Amb. Nwodo’s hard work, talent, and commitment to excellence. Her win is a proud moment for Nigeria and the African continent, showcasing the best of Nollywood’s talent and philanthropy.
Entertainment
Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release
Faaji Unlimited : Omo-Opeki Announces ‘Step Up,’ ‘Multi Talented,’ And ‘God’s Mercy’ — A Historic 3-in-1 Fuji Album Set For April 8 Release
By Alhaji Arems (Baba Fuji)
Alhaja Queen Isimot Abake Abiola, widely known as Omo-Opeki, is stepping into a defining moment in her career with the official announcement of her ambitious 3-in-1 Fuji album. Titled Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, the project is scheduled for release on April 8 — a date that also marks her birthday.
More than a strategic rollout, the timing signals intention. It frames the project as both a personal milestone and a cultural statement, positioning the veteran Fuji act at the center of a conversation that extends beyond music.
A Three-Part Statement of Growth, Identity, and Gratitude :
By unveiling the titles of the three albums, Omo-Opeki transforms what was once a bold concept into a fully realized artistic vision.
Each title carries its own thematic weight:
• Step Up suggests progression — a conscious elevation into a new phase of artistry and influence
• Multi Talented highlights range, reinforcing her versatility within a genre that rewards depth and endurance.
• God’s Mercy reflects gratitude, pointing to the spiritual and personal journey that underpins her career.
Together, the albums form a layered narrative. Rather than a single body of work, the 3-in-1 structure allows for a broader exploration of identity, sound, and storytelling — a format that aligns naturally with Fuji’s tradition of extended compositions and expressive delivery.
April 8 : More Than A Release Date :
Choosing April 8 as the release date adds a deeper layer of symbolism to the project. Birthdays often represent renewal, reflection, and forward momentum — themes that mirror the essence of the album titles themselves.
For Omo-Opeki, the alignment of her birthday with such a significant release suggests more than coincidence. It positions the moment as a personal and professional convergence — one that celebrates longevity while signaling evolution.
In an industry where timing can shape perception, anchoring a major release to a date of personal significance strengthens the narrative around it. It becomes not just a drop, but a moment of declaration.
Rewriting the Narrative for Women in Fuji :
Fuji music, deeply rooted in Yoruba Islamic and Apala traditions, has long been shaped by male dominance in both performance and large-scale releases. While female artists have contributed significantly to its growth, landmark projects of this magnitude have rarely been associated with women.
Omo-Opeki’s 3-in-1 album challenges that precedent.
Executing a multi-volume release demands more than creative output. It requires strategic planning, financial commitment, audience loyalty, and the confidence to carry such weight within a traditional space. By taking on this scale, she is not only expanding her own catalog but also redefining what is possible for female Fuji musicians.
Leadership Beyond The Studio :
Beyond her work as a recording artist, Omo-Opeki serves as the President of the Elite Women Musician Association of Nigeria (EWMAN). Her role within the organization reflects a broader commitment to advocacy, mentorship, and structural support for women in the music industry.
This dual position — as both artist and leader — strengthens the significance of her upcoming release. It reinforces her credibility not just as a performer, but as a figure actively shaping opportunities for others.
Balancing creative output with industry leadership is no small feat. Yet, it adds weight to the moment, positioning the album as part of a larger narrative around representation and access.
A Strategic Moment For Fuji in a Global Era :
The announcement arrives at a time when Afrobeats continues to dominate global conversations, often overshadowing indigenous genres. In this context, bold releases within traditional spaces carry added importance.
A project of this scale does more than spotlight an individual artist — it draws attention back to the genre itself.
By delivering a 3-in-1 album with clear thematic direction and symbolic timing, Omo-Opeki is contributing to a renewed visibility for Fuji. It becomes a reminder that the genre remains dynamic, evolving, and capable of commanding attention on its own terms.
A Defining Chapter in Motion :
With Step Up, Multi Talented, and God’s Mercy, Omo-Opeki is not just releasing music — she is curating a moment that blends personal significance, artistic ambition, and cultural impact.
April 8 will mark more than a birthday. It will stand as a milestone in her journey and, potentially, a turning point in the narrative surrounding female artists in Fuji music.
As the date approaches, anticipation continues to build. But beyond expectation lies something more enduring — the sense that this release is not just about what is coming next, but about what it makes possible going forward.
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