Lisabi Review: Why Are Other Tribes Silent on Their History?

This past weekend marked a significant moment for Nollywood as three major films—Lisabi, Queen Lateefah, and Farmer’s Bride—were released on September 27th. While Lisabi, directed by Niyi Akinmolayan of Anthill Studios, made its debut on Netflix, the other two films hit cinemas nationwide. With an impressive cast featuring Lateef Adedimeji, Adebimpe Oyebade, Odunlade Adekola, Ibrahim Chatta, and many more, Lisabi is shaping up to be a powerful addition to the growing catalog of Yoruba epics.

Nollywood has seen a surge in historical Yoruba tales, from Ageshinkole and Jagun Jagun to House of Gáa. Now, Lisabi follows in their footsteps, further establishing the dominance of Yoruba stories in Nollywood. This film is a win for the Yoruba people, showcasing their rich history while other ethnic groups seem to lag behind in telling their own stories on major platforms like Netflix and in cinemas.

The Story of Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala

The tale of Lisabi is rooted in history, recounting the story of Lisabi Agbongbo-Akala, a legendary military strategist and farmer from Egba land who spearheaded a rebellion against the mighty Oyo Empire in the 18th century. This pivotal figure united several Yoruba groups, including Ijaiye, Gbagura, and Igbeyin, to free them from the control of the Oyo Empire, which had dominated these regions for years.

Lisabi: The Uprising depicts this story of bravery and unity. Set in the Oyo Empire, the film opens with the arrest of King Olodan, who is beaten and dragged to the Alaafin’s palace for refusing to pay tributes. These tributes, collected from the people’s hard-earned businesses, consist of money and farm produce. Enraged by King Olodan’s defiance, the Alaafin orders his execution, setting the tone for the brutal reign of terror led by Songodeyi, the head of the tribute collectors, and his subordinates.

These collectors not only rob the people of their livelihoods but also unleash violence and cruelty upon the community. Women are raped, and anyone who dares to resist is killed, leaving the people of Egba land in constant fear and oppression.

Oshokenu’s Tragic Story

Oshokenu, a close friend of Lisabi and a lazy farmer, witnesses the horror firsthand when tribute collectors take away a businesswoman’s daughter, even after seizing all her money. Outraged, Oshokenu questions their actions and is brutally marked for his defiance.

Despite his flaws, Oshokenu soon finds love in Abebi, a beautiful woman from Egba, with the help of Lisabi. However, the collectors, determined to destroy his happiness, attack and rape Abebi on her way to her husband’s house. Traumatized by the assault, Abebi tragically takes her own life.

Furious and heartbroken, Oshokenu sets out on a vengeful mission, managing to kill ten of the tribute collectors before being fatally shot. With his dying breath, he begs Lisabi to ensure his death is not in vain. This becomes the turning point for Lisabi, who unites the farmers not just for survival but for an uprising against their oppressors.