OLOTURE: The Journey Premiers On Netflix

OLOTURE: The Journey Premiers On Netflix, directed by Kenneth Gyang and produced by Mo Abudu, is living up to its billing and setting the opinion public alight. 

The long-awaited movie Oloture, which premiered in 2019, will release its sequel, Oloture: The Journey, on Netflix on June 28th. 

Only sometimes does a movie captivate its audience entirely, and that audience captivation is what Oloture has accomplished.

This Nigerian drama, directed by Kenneth Gyang, takes viewers through the dark world of human trafficking and prostitution. It sheds light on a critical concern that is often neglected and does so in a way that is both tear-jerking and eye-opening.

 The movie, directed by Kenneth Gyang and produced by Mo Abudu, tells the story of a young and ambitious journalist who goes undercover to expose the brutal truth behind the sex trafficking industry in Nigeria.

Director Kenneth Gyang does an incredible job of balancing the severe subject (human trafficking) with moments of humour and humanity. He also succeeds in portraying Nigeria’s beauty and culture despite the movie’s dark topic. 

The movie draws inspiration from a 2014 publication by investigative journalist Tobore Ovuoire, which exposed the workings of a notorious trafficking ring in Nigeria.

Tobore Ovuoire is a Nigerian investigative reporter for Premium Times who went undercover to expose the dangers of human trafficking in Nigeria. 

She was motivated to take on this dangerous mission after a friend became a sex worker in Europe and died. During her eight months of undercover, Ovuoire was assaulted and also came close to being killed. 

Her investigation revealed that many Nigerian women are deceived into sex work in Europe, often under the pretence of a better life. Netflix later adapted  Tobore Ovuoire’s exploits into a film titled “Oloture’’.

One of the most striking aspects of Oloture is its portrayal of investigative journalism’s role in exposing hidden realities. The movie highlights the bravery and resilience of journalists like Tobore Ovuoire. 

In the film, Oloture’s character, played by Sharon Oja, goes undercover to gather evidence and expose the human trafficking ring. This approach mirrors how investigative journalism works, where journalist put themselves in danger and delve deep into their investigations to uncover the truth.

The power of investigative journalism lies in its ability to uncover corruption, exploitation, and other injustices that affect society. Through this type of journalism, the media can hold those in power accountable and give a voice to the voiceless.

Oloture highlights this by showing how its investigation led to the arrest and prosecution of the traffickers, bringing justice to the victims and their families.

The movie also sheds light on the dangerous risks that investigative journalists face in carrying out their job. Oloture was exposed to dangers such as rape, violence, and even death while working undercover.

Watch Òlòtūré: The Journey | Netflix Official Site

The vices highlighted above mirror the reality many journalists face, especially in countries where the press is not free, and corruption is rampant. Despite these risks, Oloture persevered in her mission to uncover the truth, showcasing the determination and bravery of investigative journalists worldwide.

Oloture also highlights the emotional implications faced by journalists when undertaking investigative projects. In the movie, Oloture had to make tough decisions, such as sacrificing her relationship and safety, to get the necessary evidence. 

The associated risk raises essential questions about the line between a journalist’s responsibility to expose the truth and the well-being of those involved in the story. 

It also showcases the importance of responsible and ethical journalism in investigative reporting. Oloture is not an easy movie to watch, but it’s essential. 

It highlights the urgent need for action and awareness on the issue of human trafficking. The performance by the entire cast is exceptional, with each actor delivering a powerful portrayal of their character.

What sets this movie apart from other films that tackle similar themes is its ability to humanize those involved in the sex trade industry. We also see the struggles and vulnerability of women, as well as their hopes and dreams for a better life.

 The movie also reminds us that women are not just statistics but real individuals with different stories and aspirations. Oloture touches on the issue of media ownership and its influence on Journalism.

The film portrayed the Media as a money-making venture with little concern for and empathy for the profession’s ethos and principles. 

Oloture’s editor initially sees her investigation as a way to boost sales and increase ratings but later withdraws his support when he realised it is too risky. 

This Oloture’s editor’s flippant approach to investigative journalism reflects the reality of many news organisations, where their commercial interests overshadow the outcomes they aspire to achieve. 

The power of the media and how it is a reformative tool

The concluding part of the movie has been on the minds of many Nigerians who are movie lovers as the first part of the movie premiere in 2019 ended in a way that made the audiences yearn for more.

The series, which will be released on June 28th on Netflix, will focus on the young journalist who crosses the Benin Border. 

Her hazardous journey will take her through the hostile land of Niger and Libya as she fights to find a way out. 

The cast of this long-awaited sequel includes Ayo Mogaji, Bukola Oladipupo, Daniel Etim Effong, Stan Nze, and Patrick Doyle, among others.

Overall, ” Oloture” is not just a movie; it is a powerful and thought-provoking film that illuminates critical socio-cultural issues. 

It is a movie worth every minute of your time.