Nollywood star Omowunmi Dada recently shared her experience playing Grace Eniola Soyinka, the mother of renowned Nigerian playwright and novelist Wole Soyinka, in the biopic Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti. Reflecting on her role, Dada expressed the significance of bringing such a powerful historical figure to life.
“It is an honor to portray Grace Eniola Soyinka and to bring her story to audiences worldwide. She was not only a devoted mother but also a fearless advocate for justice and equality. I am honored to embody her spirit and showcase her legacy to the world,” Dada said.
In the film, Dada delves into Grace Eniola Soyinka’s courageous fight against systemic injustice, highlighting her bravery, love, and sacrifices for her family. The movie also explores the establishment of the Abeokuta Women’s Union by Soyinka’s mother and her aunt-in-law, Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, to protest unfair taxes imposed by the Alake of Abeokuta. This union, which grew to include 20,000 women, eventually became the national organization, the Nigerian Women’s Union.
Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti chronicles the life of Kuti, the mother of Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, from her pioneering days as the first female student at Abeokuta Grammar School to her marriage to Israel Ransome-Kuti. Together, they opposed injustice and founded the Abeokuta Women’s Union, leading to significant conflicts with both traditional and colonial authorities.
Directed by Bolanle Austen-Peters and Ibrahim Taofik, the film features an ensemble cast including Joke Silva, Kehinde Bankole, Adunni Ade, Iyimide Ayo-Olumoko, Ibrahim Suleiman, and Iremide Adeoye. Omowunmi Dada, known for her versatility, has solidified her place as one of Nigeria’s most talented actresses, with notable roles in The Gods Are Still Not To Blame (2012), The Ghost and the Tout (2018), Shuga (2019), and Tinsel.
A fearless female leader sparks a revolution in Nigeria.
Discover the untold story of Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, mother of the legendary Fela Anikulapo-Kuti, who forever changed the course of history.
FUNMILAYO RANSOME-KUTI coming to cinemas on May 17! 🎬 pic.twitter.com/npLvsPp3O5
— Omowunmi Dada (@dadaomowunmi) April 19, 2024
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