Adedibu family disputes biopic with filmmaker over alleged falsehoods

The family of the late Ibadan political figure Lamidi Ariyibi Adedibu is in a legal dispute with filmmaker Seun Oloketuyi over the biographical film ‘Adedibu: Alagbara Ibadan’. The family, represented by Blossom Chambers, has demanded ₦500 million in damages, a public apology, and the removal of the film from YouTube and other social media platforms.

The family alleges the production was made without consent and contains “grave untruths, fabrications and sensational falsehoods” regarding Adedibu’s private life and political career. Specifically, they dispute portrayals suggesting he rigged elections through violence, used “amala politics” to enslave residents, and was a “puppet of doom.” They also claim the film used private family photographs and recordings without permission.

In response, Oloketuyi’s legal counsel, ASALAW LP, rejected the allegations, maintaining that the film is a retelling of a life that is already extensively documented in the public domain. The filmmakers argue that permission from relatives is not required to produce a historical account of a prominent public figure.