Will Dino Melaye and Ayo Fayose's Ambitions in Nollywood Shake the Nigerian Industry?

The persistent attempts by Dino Melaye and Ayo Fayose to join the Nollywood, Nigeria’s vibrant movie industry, have generated quite a buzz. Are they truly seeking to bring a significant disruption, or is their intention merely to attract attention and perpetuate their own brand of political theater?

Are These Just Political Gimmicks?

At first glance, their attempts might seem like just another political gimmick, designed to garner media attention and fan the flames of controversy. Both Melaye and Fayose are seasoned politicians, known for their narcissistic and often controversial stances. Their approach to joining the film industry seems more about leveraging their existing notoriety than a genuine passion for storytelling.

Many critics argue that their intentions are purely financial, given the non-profitable nature of most Nollywood productions. It’s also worth noting that the film industry is not typically a lucrative venture for politicians, who might as well focus on more traditional ways of making money. In fact, in a recent quote to a local news outlet, Melaye said, “Ashawo get that one” (which roughly translates to “Someone else should do that” in Yoruba), further emphasizing his disinterest in the film business.

The Potential Impact of Political Satire

However, there is a silver lining to this unusual scenario. If Melaye and Fayose do indeed decide to venture into Nollywood, they might bring a fresh and unique perspective to the industry. The Nigerian film industry, often characterized by its predictable storylines, could benefit from a new wave of political satire, driven by the wealth of experience and exposure these politicians have gained in Nigerian politics.

Given the deep-rooted nature of political influence in Nigeria, every institution can be seen as political, either directly or indirectly. Averaging new elements from a politically charged background can indeed breathe fresh air into an industry that has seen the same faces for far too long. Perhaps Melaye and Fayose can provide some interesting political commentary, which could offer a new kind of entertainment and critical commentary.

Risk and Reality

Despite the potential, there is little chance that their involvement will disrupt the industry. Nigerians are already accustomed to politicians’ antics, particularly during election periods, and this will likely be just another chapter in a long-running narrative. Melaye and Fayose’s ventures into Nollywood might provide amusement and a brief distraction, but they are more akin to entertainers than political actors in the traditional sense.

Both are often seen parading themselves in public, seeking attention and validation. Melaye, for instance, might be seen eating corn on the road, while Fayose helps a barrow pusher, all for the sake of the public spectacle. Their childishness, while entertaining, is unlikely to have a meaningful impact on the Nigerian political landscape or the film industry.

Furthermore, the Nigerian youth, with its vast potential and intelligence, should take a more active role in real political engagement. The current political landscape in Nigeria is full of crises and concerns that require serious action and participation from all citizens, particularly the young and dynamic population. Melaye and Fayose, with their playfulness and superficiality, are more likely to sustain the status quo than disrupt it.

While their antics may serve as a form of comic relief for a while, their actual impact on Nigeria will likely be minimal. The real challenge lies in cultivating a more informed and politically engaged youth who can drive meaningful change.