Jide Kosoko’s Epic Historical Film ‘ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi)’ Wins Rave Reviews at Star-Studded Lagos Premiere

It was a night of glitz, glamour and thunderous applause as Nollywood legends, rising stars and culture enthusiasts gathered in Lagos for the grand premiere of the much-anticipated historical epic ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) — a film that is already being hailed as a major milestone in Nigerian cinema.

Produced by veteran actor and cultural icon Prince Jide Kosoko, the film drew a dazzling array of Nollywood stars who turned up in style to celebrate the project and honour one of the industry’s most respected figures.

Among the glittering celebrities who graced the premiere were Femi Adebayo, Muyiwa Ademola, Iyabo Ojo, Saidi Balogun, Rotimi Salami, Otunba Adebayo Salami (Oga Bello), Sola Kosoko Abina, Bidemi Kosoko, Temilade Kosoko, Bayo Tijani, Foluke Daramola, Eniola Ajao, Rose Odika, Kunle Afolayan, Kolawole Ajeyemi, Bolaji Amusan (Latin), Owolabi Ajasa, Jide Awobono, Kamo State, alongside several other notable actors, filmmakers and industry stakeholders who came out in full support.

From the red carpet to the screening hall, the atmosphere was electric as guests soaked in the rich historical narrative and cinematic spectacle presented in the film.

When the lights came back on after the screening, the verdict from the audience was loud and clear: ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) is a powerful and visually captivating production that has raised the bar for historical storytelling in Nollywood.

Several guests described the film as a bold cinematic effort that redefines the way Nigerian stories — especially historical ones — should be told on the big screen. Many praised the film’s grand scale, powerful performances, authentic cultural representation and attention to historical detail.

Industry observers at the event noted that the film demonstrates how Nigerian filmmakers can successfully blend history, culture and high-quality production values to create stories that resonate with modern audiences while preserving the nation’s heritage.

At the centre of the project is Prince Jide Kosoko, a respected Nollywood veteran whose career spans decades across theatre, television and film. Widely regarded as one of the pillars of the Yoruba film industry, Kosoko has remained deeply committed to promoting indigenous stories and preserving Yoruba history through film.

ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) reflects that passion.

The historical drama tells the compelling story of Oba Esugbayi Eleko, one of Lagos’ most influential monarchs whose reign became a defining moment in the struggle between traditional authority and colonial power.

The film brings to life the political intrigue, resistance, and cultural pride that marked the monarch’s era, offering audiences an immersive journey into a crucial chapter of Lagos history.

The movie is directed by a strong creative team consisting of Bayo Tijani, Tunde Olaoye, and Tunde Kosoko, whose combined vision helped bring the epic story to life with striking visuals, dramatic storytelling and authentic cultural representation.

Their collaboration has been widely applauded by early viewers, who believe the film signals a new level of ambition for Nigerian historical cinema.

With the premiere already generating excitement and strong word-of-mouth among Nollywood stakeholders, expectations are high as the film prepares for its nationwide cinema release.

Nigerian audiences will have the opportunity to watch the epic historical drama when ELEKO (Oba Esugbayi) opens in cinemas across the country on March 20, 2026.

For Prince Jide Kosoko and the creative team behind the project, the premiere may have been a grand celebration — but it is only the beginning of what many believe could become one of Nollywood’s most talked-about historical films.