Veteran broadcaster, actor and filmmaker, Adebayo Musiliu Sanni, popularly known as Bebe Musiliu or Adisa Onitaxi, has unveiled his new movie, Obe Oselu, describing it as a thought-provoking production designed to examine political realities, leadership responsibilities and the expectations of the electorate.
Sanni, a native of Igbein in Abeokuta, Ogun State, said the movie was inspired by some of the political developments and scenarios playing out in the state, adding that the production would pass important messages to politicians, their followers and voters.
Speaking ahead of the movie's premiere scheduled for Friday, November 13, at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library (OOPL) Marquee, Abeokuta, by 6:00 p.m., the filmmaker explained that the project was conceived from his desire to use entertainment as a platform for social commentary and political awareness.
According to him, the story was initially intended to be presented as a skit, considering his background as a popular skit maker, but his production team advised that a full-length movie would provide a better opportunity to explore the subject and communicate its underlying messages.
He noted that his transition from broadcasting to filmmaking was a natural progression of his creative abilities, having spent over two decades in broadcasting and developed considerable experience in storytelling.
Sanni cited the late Toba Opaleye, who wrote Igbanladogi and initially presented it as a radio story before adapting it into a movie, as well as the late Gbenga Adeboye, who wrote Iseju Marun and later transformed it into a movie.
He also referenced Yemi Sonde of Ibadan, who presented Sikiratu Sindodo on his radio programme before it was turned into a movie, noting that the achievements of these veteran broadcasters further strengthened his conviction that storytelling skills developed on radio could successfully translate into filmmaking.
Explaining the central message of Obe Oselu, the filmmaker said the title was deliberately chosen to reflect the expectations and motivations of different participants in the democratic process.
In his words, "The politicians are working tirelessly because of what? OBE! The followers are following blindly because of what? OBE! We, the voters, come out under the scorching sun to cast our votes because of what? OBE! Now, what is OBE? It is the dividend of democracy."
He stressed that the movie was not designed to address politicians alone but also their supporters and the electorate, urging all stakeholders to reflect on their respective responsibilities in strengthening democracy and ensuring that governance delivers tangible benefits to the people.
The filmmaker expressed confidence that audiences who watched the production and followed its storyline would gain fresh perspectives on political activities and issues that often go unnoticed, adding that the movie would stimulate conversations about leadership, political loyalty and democratic expectations.
He further disclosed that the premiere would attract prominent personalities and dignitaries from the political circle in Ogun State and its environs, alongside entertainment practitioners, associates and other invited guests.
The premiere, scheduled for 6:00 p.m. on Friday at the OOPL Marquee, Abeokuta, is expected to bring together stakeholders from the political and entertainment sectors.
With Obe Oselu, Sanni is seeking to demonstrate that filmmaking can go beyond entertainment to serve as an instrument of public enlightenment, social reflection and constructive engagement on issues affecting society.

No comments:
Post a Comment