One week after the star-studded premiere of Labake Olododo in Lagos, the highly anticipated Nollywood epic is set to take Ibadan, Oyo State, by storm. The movie, which features the dynamic Iyabo Ojo as the titular character, has become the hottest topic across both social and traditional media.
Since its Lagos debut, the film has generated massive buzz, especially with the presence of Nollywood heavyweights like Mercy Aigbe, Funke Akindele, Toyin Abraham, and Liquorose, who graced the premiere and gave their stamp of approval. Their attendance further amplified the excitement surrounding the film, which is already being called the biggest Nollywood release of 2025 so far.
To delight fans even more, Olumide Oworu and Tayo Faniran, who both featured in the movie, will host a special meet-and-greet at cinemas across Ibadan. For Ibadan natives, this premiere holds special significance, as the movie was largely shot in the ancient city just six months ago.
Executive Producers Abayomi Olukanmi (CEO, Abazee Productions), Iyabo Ojo, and Alaba Ultimatereturned to Ibadan not only for the premiere but also to thank the city for providing a perfect backdrop for the film.
Speaking about the project, Iyabo Ojo revealed her inspiration:
“I took some inspiration from the Hollywood movie The Woman King to make Labake Olododo, plus I hadn’t done a Yoruba movie in a while. I did it for my fans who first fell in love with me through Yoruba films.”
Alaba Ultimate, who also plays a crucial role, teased fans:
“I play a kind of villain, but by the end of the movie, you’ll know whether I’m really a villain or not.”
Labake Olododo weaves an enthralling story set in pre-colonial Yoruba land, blending drama, romance, comedy, loyalty, leadership, and power struggles. Subtitled in English, it is designed to appeal to both Yoruba and non-Yoruba audiences.
Ibadan’s rich cultural heritage — home to Africa’s first TV station, Nigeria’s first university, and first sports stadium — deeply influenced the film’s look and feel.
The movie also features a stellar cast, including Femi Adebayo, Ibrahim Chatta, Fathia Balogun, Afeez Owo, alongside the younger stars, all under the direction of award-winning filmmaker Biodun Stephen.
Labake Olododo officially hits cinemas nationwide on Friday, March 28, 2025, promising audiences an unforgettable cinematic experience.
