Francis Duru Challenges Yoruba Dominance in Nollywood

Veteran actor Francis Duru has ignited discussions regarding the power dynamics in Nollywood, asserting that Yoruba filmmakers have gained dominance in an industry that Igbos originally built. He acknowledged Yoruba figures like Herbert Ogunde as early pioneers of Nigerian performance arts but emphasized that the commercial film industry, known as Nollywood, was largely established by Igbo traders who introduced home video in the 1990s and early 2000s.

Duru criticized the Yoruba for their organized efforts to protect their interests and create opportunities, contrasting this with what he described as an Igbo tendency towards self-centredness. He expressed concern over the portrayal of Igbo culture, noting that narratives are often told inaccurately by outsiders, including Yoruba filmmakers.

Duru's comments serve as a call for accountability within the industry and have sparked renewed debate about ethnic identity and cultural representation in Nigeria's film sector.