Ogbori Elemoso remake: Firm denies Nollywood veteran Paimo’s copyright claim
Fewchore Studios Denies Illegal Remake of Classic Yoruba Film Ogbori Elemoso
Fewchore Studios has firmly denied allegations that it unlawfully remade the classic Yoruba historical film Ogbori Elemoso, insisting that its production is an original work developed from independent historical research and duly authorised by the Soun of Ogbomosoland.
The clarification follows claims by veteran Nollywood actor Chief Olalere Paimo, popularly known as Eda Onile Ola, who accused the studio of exploiting his intellectual property without consent.
Background of the Controversy
The dispute arose after Chief Paimo alleged that Ogbori Elemoso, a historical Yoruba film he produced in the early 1980s, was being remade without his approval. The film earned him national recognition and his chieftaincy title, Are Arobajo of Ogbomoso, and is regarded as a landmark in the evolution of historical drama in Nollywood.
Paimo had appealed to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and other prominent Nigerians to intervene, describing the alleged infringement as an attempt to undermine his legacy.
Fewchore Studios’ Response
In a statement obtained by www.cjsoftflix.com on Thursday, Fewchore Studios clarified that Ogbori Elemoso refers to Soun Ogunlola, the founder and first king of Ogbomoso, and is part of established Yoruba history.
“No individual can lawfully claim exclusive ownership over the history of a town or its founding monarch. We have not remade or reproduced any film, script, or creative work by Chief Olalere Osunpaimo, nor used any of his proprietary materials. The project is an original historical film developed from independent research,” the studio stated.
The studio added that any copyright held by Chief Paimo is limited strictly to his earlier creative work, none of which was used or adapted in the new production.
Traditional Authority and Cultural Mandate
Fewchore Studios further disclosed that the project has the full backing of traditional authorities in Ogbomosoland.
“Fewchore Studios is executing the project with the express written authorisation of Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the Soun of Ogbomosoland and custodian of its history, to promote Ogbomoso’s cultural heritage, encourage indigene engagement, stimulate cultural tourism, and support long-term socio-economic development through responsible historical storytelling,” the statement read.
Financial Interaction with Chief Paimo
Addressing financial issues raised, the studio revealed that Chief Paimo initially requested a sum for involvement in the project, which was negotiated during meetings held at his residence.
“Following his request for ₦30 million, Fewchore Studios offered ₦15 million strictly as a goodwill gift in recognition of his past contributions and interest in the project. This was accepted and formally documented as a gift, not payment for rights or history, with ₦7.5 million paid as an initial instalment in the presence of witnesses,” the studio explained.
Fewchore noted that Chief Paimo later withdrew from the project after legal correspondence from his representatives and subsequently refunded the ₦7.5 million earlier received.
Copyright and Title Ownership Clarification
The studio also dismissed claims that Chief Paimo holds exclusive legal rights to the title Ogbori Elemoso, citing official records.
“There is no registered copyright or trademark in the name Ogbori Elemoso in favour of Chief Olalere Osunpaimo at the Nigerian Copyright Commission or any trademark registry. Appeals to political or religious figures cannot create rights where none exist in law,” Fewchore stated.
Studio Reaffirms Commitment to Yoruba History
Fewchore Studios concluded by reiterating that no individual can claim ownership of a town’s collective history and reaffirmed its dedication to ethical and transparent storytelling.
“Our work is guided by responsibility, respect for culture, and lawful processes, not coercion, exploitation, or unlawful appropriation,” the statement added.
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