Event Details
As part of International Development Week 2025, Cooperation Canada and International Development Research Centre (IDRC) are proud to present a reception and a screening of The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos, a powerful, thought-provoking film that offers a riveting critique of urban development and forced evictions in Africa's largest city, Lagos.
Directed by the Agbajowo Collective, this striking debut film combines elements of thriller, documentary, and magical realism to tell the story of Jawu, a warrior spirit trapped in the harsh realities of Lagos' floating slums. Portrayed by the talented Temi Ami-Williams (known for Eyimofe), Jawu embarks on a perilous journey after uncovering the dark secrets of corrupt politicians and confronting the brutal reality of evictions that threaten her home and community. Although this is a work of fiction many of the scenes described are based on true events that happened over the course of the violent forced eviction of over 30,000 from the Egun fishing community of Otodo Gbame between November 2016 and April 2017.
Join us for on February 3, 2025 at 4:30 pm EST for an introductory reception (free admittance serving light snacks of Nigerian cuisine with special presentations by Cooperation Canada, IDRC and Justice Empowerment Initiatives) followed by this eye-opening screening (minimum $5 PWYC fee) and stay for a discussion on the intersection of urban development and human rights along with a Q&A with key figures from the film's production.
Film Synopsis:
Jawu, a mother and small market vendor, lives humbly with her son in the Agbojedo community, a floating slum situated on the lagoon that gives Lagos its name. As rumors spread about government plans to demolish their homes for new development, Jawu stumbles upon a corrupt politician burying a stash of stolen cash. Seeing this as a chance to change her life, she takes the money. However, she soon discovers that her actions have set her on a path that will require more than she could ever imagineโfacing a battle for survival and the future of her community.
Through this stunning narrative, The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos explores themes of poverty, power, and the destruction of communities, all while blending real-life concerns with the magic of Nigerian storytelling. With an electrifying performance from Temi Ami-Williams and a production that took seven years to bring to the screen, this film is not only a testament to the resilience of Lagos' residents but also a call to action regarding the issues of forced evictions and unchecked development.
**Click image for trailer**
Film Details:
- Length: 101 minutes
- Languages: Nigerian Pidgin, Yoruba, English, Egun - English subtitles
- Country of Origin: Nigeria, Germany, South Africa, United States
- Content Advisory: Depictions of suicide, violence, and mature themes
- Admission fee: $5 minimum PWYC all proceeds going to JEI.
Learn about the film's impact campaign in support of the resettlement plan, and make a direct donation through this link, or by writing a cheque to "Justice & Empowerment Initiatives Inc.". Cheques can be mailed to 91 Cornell Street, Newton, Massachusetts, 02462, USA). Every dollar counts, and will help make the film โ and its impact โ everything it can be.
