Elections are just around the corner, and many Nigerians are at the edge of their seats. Nigerians have been through a lot in the past couple of months: from fuel scarcity to cash scarcity, and there is tension in the air. 

A number of Nollywood films have treated the subject of Nigerian politics and governance. What better time is there to watch these films than now? Here is a list. 

KING OF BOYS (2018)

Kemi Adetiba’s King of Boys is a film about Eniola Salami (Sola Sobowale) and her journey pursuing her political ambitions. Salami is the leader of a crime empire, but somehow finds ways to bury her dirty past in order to climb the political ladder. The film has been said to satirise a known political figure in Nigeria. If you haven’t seen the political thriller  film yet, you should–it is as educative as it is entertaining. The sequel mini-series King of boys: The return of the King is also a good watch that follows Salami coming back to get back at her enemies and continue chasing power. 

SHANTY TOWN (2013)

Shanty town tells the story of Scar (Chidi Mokeme), a thug who deals in drugs, prostitutes and human trafficking. Though it shines a light on the underbelly of a town, it directly points to the happenings in Nigeria. In a scene, Chief Fernandez (RMD), who heads the corrupt empire that Scar runs, decides to run for governor. As a result, he tells Scar to put an end to his drug business, so that it doesn’t affect his public image in the future. This hints at some politicians in Nigeria who practise similar activities like Chief Fernandez.

SAWOROIDE & AGOGO EWO

These films directed by Tunde Kelani satirise the military government in Nigeria at the time. Saworoide (1999), tells the story of Lapite, a new king who seizes the throne of a town, Jogbo. Lapite then becomes intoxicated by power and begins to cheat the people and mismanage their resources. This film obviously tells of how military leaders always usurped, abused and looted Nigerians in those times.

In Agogo Ewo (2002), the sequel to Saworoide, we watch the events following the death of Lapite unfold. The people of Jogbo decide to appoint a police officer as their leader, and he changes things in the town for good. This hints at the change of hands from military rulers to leaders appointed by the people in a democratic nation. 

YOUR EXCELLENCY (2019)

Written and directed by Funke Akindele, this film takes a less critical tone than the aforementioned films, as it is a comedy. It follows the story of a couple, Mr and Mrs Ajadi played by Akin Lewis and Funke Akindele respectively. Mr Ajadi tries to run for president, but has already failed two times, so he is supported by his wife. We see the obstacles and opportunities that present themselves to the couple in their political pursuit. It enlightens us about the challenges that some politicians might have in their personal lives.