Fewchore Studios denies allegations of copyright infringement over Ogbomoso historical film

Yoruba film production outfit, Fewchore Studios has refuted recent media reports suggesting that it unlawfully remade a work by Chief Olalere Osunpaimo, allegedly with the endorsement of the Soun of Ogbomosoland.

In a statement signed by Managing Director Aniekan Equere on Friday, the company clarified that the narrative of Ogbori Elemoso—referring to Soun Ogunlola, founder and first king of Ogbomoso—is part of established history and not the intellectual property of any individual.

“Under Nigerian and international copyright law, historical facts, titles, and folklore are in the public domain, freely available for research and creative interpretation,” the statement read. “No one can lawfully claim exclusive ownership over the history of a town or its founding monarch.”

Fewchore Studios confirmed that it has not remade or reproduced any film, script, or proprietary work by Chief Osunpaimo. The historical film in question is an original project developed from independent research, and any copyright held by Chief Osunpaimo remains limited to his own prior works, none of which have been used or adapted.

The company further stated that the project has the express written authorisation of Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, the current Soun of Ogbomosoland, who oversees the town’s history. The initiative aims to promote Ogbomoso’s cultural heritage, encourage local engagement, stimulate cultural tourism, and support socio-economic development through historical storytelling.

Fewchore Studios also clarified the financial interactions with Chief Osunpaimo. At an initial palace meeting, Chief Osunpaimo reportedly expressed satisfaction with the project and agreed to participate. A later meeting at his residence resulted in a request for ₦30 million, after which Fewchore Studios offered ₦15 million as a goodwill gift, formally documented and not linked to any rights or ownership. ₦7.5 million was paid upfront in the presence of witnesses. Following subsequent legal correspondence alleging copyright infringement, Chief Osunpaimo withdrew from the project and refunded the ₦7.5 million.

The studio emphasised that the project has been conducted transparently and respectfully at all times, and there is no registered copyright or trademark in the name Ogbori Elemoso in favour of Chief Osunpaimo at the Nigerian Copyright Commission or any trademark registry.

Fewchore Studios concluded by affirming its commitment to responsible Yoruba historical storytelling while defending itself against what it described as “false or misleading claims.”