Ogbori Elemoso Remake: Fewchore Studios Rejects Veteran Actor Lere Paimo’s Copyright Claim

Fewchore Studios has firmly denied allegations that it unlawfully remade the classic Yoruba film Ogbori Elemoso, insisting that its ongoing project is an original historical production rooted in independent research and duly authorised by the traditional authority of Ogbomosoland.

The clarification comes amid a growing controversy sparked by veteran Nollywood actor and cultural icon, Chief Olalere Paimo, popularly known as “Eda Onile Ola,” who accused the studio of exploiting his intellectual property without consent.

Paimo had claimed that the historical film, Ogbori Elemoso, which brought him national acclaim in the early 1980s, was being remade without his approval.

The original film, which chronicled the story of Ogbori Elemoso, is widely regarded as a landmark production that helped define historical drama in Nollywood.

It also earned Paimo significant recognition, including his chieftaincy title, Are Arobajo of Ogbomoso.

Disturbed by the development, the actor had appealed to Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde, General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God, Pastor Enoch Adeboye, and other prominent Nigerians to intervene, describing the alleged infringement as a threat to his legacy.

However, in a statement made available on Thursday, Fewchore Studios rejected the claims, explaining that the name Ogbori Elemoso and its narrative are derived from Yoruba history and refer to Soun Ogunlola, the founder and first king of Ogbomoso.

“No individual can lawfully claim exclusive ownership over the history of a town or its founding monarch,” the studio stated. “We have not remade or reproduced any film, script, or creative work by Chief Olalere Osunpaimo, nor have we used any of his proprietary materials.

The project is an original historical film developed from independent research.”

The studio further emphasised that any copyright held by Paimo remains limited strictly to his earlier creative works, none of which, it said, has been adapted or reproduced.

Fewchore also disclosed that the project is being executed with the express written authorisation of the Soun of Ogbomosoland, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, whom it described as the custodian of the town’s history.

According to the studio, the film aims to promote Ogbomoso’s cultural heritage, stimulate cultural tourism, and encourage socio-economic development through responsible historical storytelling.

Addressing reports of financial discussions, the studio confirmed that Paimo had requested a fee, which was negotiated, and that an amount was mutually agreed upon.