Veteran actor Lere Paimo has expressed concern about a reported plan to remake his classic film Ogbori Elemoso without his approval.
Lere, while speaking at a press conference in Ibadan on Wednesday, said this action would violate his intellectual property rights.
He shared that the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Olaoye, had previously asked him about the cost of remaking the historical play for a wider audience. Lere said he quoted N100 million and was waiting for a reply.
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Lere said that while he was waiting, film producer Ben Ayoola, also known as Ben O Ben, and others visited his home. They told him they already had the monarch’s approval to move forward without his permission.
“They told me they had already obtained permission from Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye to remake Ogbori Elemoso and that my consent was no longer required,” he said.
He also said the group told him they only wanted to give him a “gift” for his original work and paid N7.5 million into his account. He said his children refused the payment, calling it “manipulation and robbery,” and he later sent the money back to Fewchore Studio.
Lere said his lawyer sent a cease and desist letter, but the producers claimed they had royal support and told him he would not get justice even if he went to court.
Lere described the original film as a result of great sacrifice. He said it earned him national recognition, including the MFR award, but also left him in debt.
“I suffered greatly to produce this movie. I incurred heavy debts, and my car was even seized because of the loans I took to complete the project,” he said.
He called on Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, and other influential Nigerians to step in and help protect his legacy.
