By Orukpe Rebecca.
Seun Kuti, Nigerian
musician, is to portray the role of his grandfather, the legendary Nigerian musician and activist, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, in Izu Ojukwu’s upcoming movie, 77: The Festac Conspiracy. The historical drama follows the life of a resentful ex-serviceman invited to join a movement to challenge the continent’s political status quo and is set during a memorable event which took place between 15th January – 12th February 1977 in Lagos, Nigeria. The cast includes Ramsey Nouah, Rita Dominic, Daniel K Daniel, Ibinabo Fibresima and Soibifaa Dokubo.
Seun Kuti’s recently released pictures from What Kept Me Up show him delivering an energetic performance, with fans excited to see him take on yet another thrilling role as he continues to push his acting career. Kuti’s musical background and activism have made him the perfect fit for the role of Fela. The movie goes beyond musical performance and delves into his grandfather’s intense role during the period.
77: The Festac Conspiracy is written by Olisa Eloka for Adonis Production and has been produced by Pat Nebo, indicating that it will be a highly cultural story with an emphasis on the art direction. This will be Kuti’s second acting feature, following his debut in the action thriller titled No Man’s Land.
The movie is currently in post-production, and no date for its debut has been released. However, fans of Kuti’s music and acting are eagerly anticipating the release of this historical drama set to showcase African culture and history.