Faithia Williams Addresses Controversy Surrounding Upcoming Biopic ‘Efunroye: The Unicorn’
Nollywood actress Faithia Williams has revealed the intentions behind her upcoming biopic, ‘Efunroye: The Unicorn,’amid mixed reactions on social media.
The film centers on Efunroye Tinubu, a notable Yoruba businesswoman and political figure from the 19th century, recognized for her significant influence in Lagos and Abeokuta.
In a tweet shared on October 22, 2024, Williams emphasized the themes of power, trade, and legacy, stating, “Power. Trade. Legacy. She was more than a warrior; she was a ruler who rewrote history.”
This announcement sparked a flurry of responses, particularly on X (formerly Twitter), where users voiced their opinions about Tinubu’s controversial historical role, particularly regarding her alleged involvement in the slave trade.
Critics, including journalist David Hundeyin, expressed strong opposition, calling Tinubu “the ultimate slave trader” and condemning the film for glorifying a figure they believe exploited others for profit. Gbadebo Rhodes-Vivour, the 2023 Labour Party gubernatorial candidate in Lagos, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the painful legacy of human trafficking associated with Tinubu.
In response to the backlash, Williams took to X to clarify the film’s purpose, emphasizing that it is not intended to glorify or sanitize Tinubu’s history. “Firstly, ‘Efunroye: The Unicorn’ is not a promotional piece intended to glorify or whitewash a divisive historical figure,” she stated. “This film is purely a work of artistic interpretation and storytelling.”
Williams explained that her goal is to present a nuanced portrayal of Tinubu’s life, acknowledging both her achievements and the controversies surrounding her legacy. “Like all historical figures, Madam Tinubu’s story is layered, and this film aims to capture both her strengths and controversies,” she added.
The actress underscored that while the movie draws from historical events, it remains a work of fiction designed to entertain and provoke thoughtful discussion. “It is important to understand that it remains a work of fiction inspired by real events,” she said, assuring that she is committed to telling this story authentically.
As the film continues in its developmental stage, Williams expressed gratitude for the support it has garnered, highlighting her dedication to creating a compelling narrative that resonates with modern audiences.
The biopic follows a trend in Nollywood, which has seen a number of biographical films exploring complex historical figures, including Ayinla Omowura and Basorun Gaa.
