Veteran Nollywood actor and filmmaker, Chief Olalere Osunpaimo, popularly known as Lere Paimo or Eda Onile Ola, has raised serious concerns over what he described as an alleged attempt to appropriate and remake his iconic Yoruba epic film, Ogbori Elemoso, without his consent.
Speaking during a press conference held in Ibadan, Oyo State, the respected actor accused unnamed individuals and a production outfit of scheming to take over a project he considers the crowning achievement of his decades-long career in the Nigerian film industry.
His comments have since sparked widespread debate across Nollywood, reigniting conversations around intellectual property rights, cultural ownership, and the treatment of veteran creatives.
Lere Paimo, visibly emotional while addressing journalists, described the development as a direct threat to his legacy, insisting that Ogbori Elemoso is not merely a film but a deeply personal work rooted in years of research, storytelling, and cultural preservation.
Ogbori Elemoso Remake Controversy Sparks Fresh Copyright Debate
According to the veteran actor, discussions around remaking Ogbori Elemoso initially appeared cordial and respectful.
He disclosed that the Soun of Ogbomoso, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, had at an early stage expressed interest in seeing the historic narrative revived for a modern audience.
Paimo said he welcomed the idea in principle, noting that the monarch’s interest gave him confidence that the cultural essence of the story would be preserved.
He revealed that during preliminary talks, he estimated that a proper remake of the epic film would require a budget of about ₦100 million to meet contemporary production standards.
The actor added that the monarch reportedly showed willingness to increase the budget and revisit aspects of the script to ensure historical accuracy and cinematic quality.
However, events took a troubling turn in October 2025 when, according to Paimo, a man identified as Ben Ayoola, also known as Ben O Ben, alongside individuals said to be representatives of Fewchore Studio, visited his residence with claims that shocked him.
“They told me clearly that they did not need my consent to remake Ogbori Elemoso,” the veteran actor alleged.
“They said they only came to inform me and give me a gift.”
Paimo explained that shortly after the visit, a sum of ₦7.5 million was paid into his personal bank account without any written agreement, contract, or prior approval.
₦7.5m Payment Rejected as Veteran Actor Cries Foul
Describing the unsolicited payment as unethical, Paimo said his children immediately raised concerns, warning that the money could be interpreted as an attempt to silence or manipulate him.
Acting on their advice, the actor said he wasted no time in returning the funds in full.
“I considered it robbery,” he stated firmly. “I did not ask for the money, I did not approve it, and I returned it immediately.”
Following the incident, the veteran actor confirmed that his legal representatives issued a cease-and-desist letter to all parties involved, warning them against proceeding with any remake or adaptation of Ogbori Elemoso without his express consent.
Despite this, he alleged that those behind the project remained defiant, with some issuing veiled threats.
The unfolding Ogbori Elemoso remake controversy has since drawn sympathy from colleagues and fans who view Paimo as a symbol of Yoruba cultural cinema.
Palace Responds, Downplays Dispute
Reacting to the allegations, the Public Relations Officer to the Soun of Ogbomoso, Peter Olaleye, offered a different perspective.
Speaking to journalists, Olaleye described the matter as an “in-house issue,” stressing that no disrespect was intended towards the veteran actor.
He explained that Lere Paimo is a recognised chief in Ogbomoso and was contacted during early stages of the creative process.
According to him, the production team even visited the actor’s residence, insisting that the new project is a fresh interpretation inspired by Ogbomoso history rather than a direct remake of Ogbori Elemoso.
“The story belongs to Ogbomoso,” Olaleye said.
“What they are working on now is a new story entirely. The disagreement is internal and will be resolved.”
Legacy, Culture, and the Place of Veterans in Nollywood
Beyond the immediate dispute, the controversy has once again exposed the fragile position of veteran actors in Nigeria’s evolving film industry.
Many industry observers argue that while Nollywood continues to celebrate youth, innovation, and streaming success, pioneers like Lere Paimo often struggle to protect their intellectual property.
The actor’s supporters insist that remaking a culturally significant film without the creator’s approval sets a dangerous precedent.
They argue that respect for authorship is essential not only for legal reasons but also for preserving the integrity of indigenous storytelling.
This is not the first time Lere Paimo has found himself at the centre of public attention in recent months.
He recently debunked rumours of his death that circulated widely on social media, releasing a video in which he assured fans that he was alive and healthy.
The actor also made headlines after fellow Nollywood star Kunle Afod renovated his home to mark his 85th birthday, a gesture that moved many Nigerians.
A Call for Protection of Creative Heritage
As the Ogbori Elemoso remake controversy continues to unfold, Paimo has appealed to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, traditional authorities, and national cultural institutions to intervene. He insists that his fight is not about money but about safeguarding decades of creative labour.
“I am still alive,” the veteran actor said. “I should not watch people take what I built with my sweat and history.”
For many in Nollywood, the outcome of this dispute may shape how legacy films, folklore, and cultural narratives are treated in the years ahead.
