Dr. Ope Banwo, a renowned Nollywood producer, legal practitioner, and public commentator, has raised serious concerns regarding the recent joint verdict in the conflict between Taye Arimoro and Peggy Ovire on the set of ‘Pieces of Love.’ In a formal letter addressed to Dr. Queen Ebigieson, President of the Association of Movie Producers (AMP), Banwo outlined several key issues with the decision and proposed urgent reforms to address gaps in the industry’s safety and conduct standards.

Concerns Over the Verdict

Banwo’s letter highlighted seven primary areas of concern, particularly focusing on what he perceives as an imbalanced verdict and the lack of a clear stance on unlawful detention during the incident. He pointed out the following issues:

1. Perception of One-Sided Punishment: Banwo expressed dissatisfaction with the verdict, which he feels unfairly targeted one party without sufficiently addressing all aspects of the incident.
2. Lack of Condemnation for Unlawful Restraint: He criticized the decision for failing to condemn the unlawful restraint of Taye Arimoro, a key issue in the dispute.
3. Missed Opportunities for Producer Responsibility: Banwo believes the verdict missed an opportunity to emphasize the responsibility of producers in ensuring safety and professionalism on set.
4. Contradiction in the Ruling: He pointed out the contradiction between stating that no party was “culpable” while also requiring apologies and undertakings, which undermines the fairness of the judgment.
5. Negative Signal to Industry Workers: The verdict, according to Banwo, sends a harmful message to actors, crew, and estates about the risks of working with producers and could affect future collaborations.
6. Exposure of Structural Gaps: Banwo noted the absence of shared, enforced conduct and safety codes on set, leaving production teams vulnerable to operational missteps.
7. Reputational and Legal Risks for AMP: The verdict, he argued, places the AMP in a precarious position, both legally and reputationally, potentially harming the association’s credibility.

Proposed Reforms for AMP and Nollywood

As a solution, Banwo has proposed several reforms aimed at improving safety, professionalism, and accountability within the Nollywood industry. These reforms include:

1. On-Set Conduct and Safety Code: Banwo calls for the AMP to develop and publish a clear code of conduct for producers, production managers, and security personnel to ensure a safe working environment for all involved.
2. Outlaw Unlawful Detention: He suggests explicitly banning unlawful detention by production teams, with clear sanctions for those who violate this policy.
3. Mandatory Training for Producers: Banwo recommends that producers and production managers undergo compulsory training in law, ethics, and conflict management to prevent incidents like the Arimoro-Ovire dispute.
4. Independent Review Panel: He proposes the establishment of an independent review panel to handle serious incidents involving AMP members, ensuring impartial investigations and transparency.
5. Balanced Sanctions: Banwo urges AMP to implement balanced sanctions for all parties involved in on-set violence or misconduct, ensuring that everyone involved is held accountable.
6. Standardized Contracts: He advocates for the use of standardized contracts that clearly outline working hours, overtime, and minimum welfare requirements to protect the rights of everyone on set.
7. Confidential Reporting System: Banwo calls for the creation of a safe and anonymous reporting system that allows crew members to report violence, intimidation, or unsafe working conditions without fear of retaliation.

Commitment to Reform and Growth

In his letter, Banwo emphasized that his proposals are driven by his deep commitment to the Nollywood industry. As a relatively new member of the AMP, he expressed his desire to see the organization grow in respect, credibility, and moral authority. Banwo believes that with these reforms, AMP can become a stronger voice for fairness, safety, and best practices within Nollywood.

Banwo also requested that AMP leadership review their role in the joint verdict, reconsider the sanctions imposed, and consider adopting the proposed reforms to enhance the professionalism and safety of the industry. He concluded by reiterating his belief that these changes are necessary to ensure Nollywood remains a thriving and respected part of the global entertainment landscape.