Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has issued a stern warning against film piracy in the state, declaring that offenders will be prosecuted and face imprisonment.
The governor conveyed this message during a courtesy visit by a delegation of Nollywood stars to his office in Osogbo. Adeleke was presented with the hosting rights for the 2023 edition of the Best of Nollywood Awards.
Governor Adeleke emphasized the state’s commitment to eradicating piracy in the film industry, asserting that there will be no sanctuary for piracy and its perpetrators in Osun.
He expressed his understanding of the significant impact of the entertainment industry on Nigeria and stressed the need to put an end to piracy, ensuring that filmmakers receive the deserved benefits.
During the visit, Adeleke discussed the potential of the entertainment industry, highlighting his dream of implementing robust policies to support its growth. He recounted conversations with his nephew, Davido, and his son, B-Red, about the industry and the BON Awards.
“The choice of Osun to host the 15th edition of the awards is a great move by the award organisers because this administration understands the impact of the entertainment industry in Nigeria,” he added that piracy must end in Nollywood, stating that pirates cannot be benefitting from the sweat and blood of filmmakers.
“Therefore, I assure you there will be no safe haven for piracy and its perpetrators in Osun. My nephew, Davido, and my son, B-Red, recently visited me and we got talking about the entertainment industry and BON Awards.
“My dream was always to have a solid policy on the entertainment industry because I lived and studied in the U.S. for a long time, and I know the value of the industry,” he said.
The Founder and Convener of BON, Seun Oloketuyi, expressed gratitude to the governor for the hosting opportunity and urged the government to leverage the entertainment industry for societal enlightenment.
Oloketuyi emphasized the global trend of using the film industry to promote nations and encouraged Nigeria to adopt a similar strategy.
In addition to various award categories, the organisers announced that Adebayo Salami would receive special recognition for his significant contributions to the industry.
Oloketuyi highlighted Salami’s inspirational role in the industry’s foundation and his ongoing impact on actors and filmmakers, making him a deserving recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award.
The BON Awards are scheduled to take place on December 22 in Osogbo, Osun.
