By Bolarinwa Akande
The much talked about historical film by Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen, ‘Invasion 1897’, is gaining grounds, despite being in post-production stage.
The filmmaker disclosed that two long-stolen Benin artifacts have been received at the palace of Benin monarch, Oba Omo N’Oba N’Edo Uku Akpolopolo, following recent campaigns, hinged on the message of the film.
The film is being adopted as a means to re-open agitation against the injustice meted to the Benin people during the dark era of British expedition in Africa in 1897.
The bronze carvings were said to have been voluntarily returned to the country by Mark Walker, a great grandson of one of the soldiers that participated in the British invasion of Benin Kingdom in 1897, Captain Philip Walker, after over 117 years in private custody in Britain.
Speaking on the reparation of the artifacts, Lancelot said the return was made possible following accolades received while shooting part of the film in London few months ago.
“I am happy that this is happening in our time. ‘Invasion 1897’ is a movement. We will use the film to reopen agitation for the reparation of the artifacts carted away from the Benin Kingdom by the British Empire.”
The film focuses on the invasion of the Benin Kingdom by the British Empire in 1897, and how they carted away ancient artifacts belonging to the kingdom under the reign of Oba Ovonramwen Nogbaisi who was deposed and later, died while on exile in Calabar.
Cast of the movie include Segun Arinze, Paul Obazele, Mike Omoregbe who played the lead character, and a special appearance by late Justus Esiri.