…as Patience Okhuofu brings her fascinating story to the big screen

By Benjamin Njoku

The fascinating story of Queen Idia, the formidable mother of the Oba of Benin (1504-1550), is set to captivate audiences worldwide as US-based Nigerian filmmaker Patience Ojheneovo Okhuofu brings this ancient Amazon’s tale to the big screen.

Queen Idia was known to be a relentless warrior who played a significant role in the rise and reign of her son as king of the Edo Empire. The shooting of the epic film will commence before the end of this month. Okhuofu received the blessings of Oba of Benin Ewuare II two years ago to embark on the laudable project.

Intimating the press about the big budget movie during the week, Okhuofu, a member of Uyiedo Theatre Troupe, said he spent 10 years researching Queen Idia’s life, driven by a passion to showcase women achievers.

Titled, “Queen Idia: A Wife, A Mother, and A Warrior,” the historical drama will be produced and directed by Patience Ojheneovo Okhuof with popular female director, Patience Oghre Imobhio as Assistant Director. The movie, which will be shot in Benin, will feature a large cast.

As a lover of women achievers, Okhuofu said her intention was to use the medium of the tube to portray Queen Idia’s story from the perspective of a woman.

She said, “Our vision is to create a significant body of work that resonates not only within Nigeria but also, across the African continent and beyond. I am passionate about her story. While numerous authors have chronicled various aspects of Queen Idia’s journey, today’s audience is increasingly visual, favouring cinematic narratives over traditional literature.

“Given that many young people are drawn to the screen rather than the pages of books , it has become imperative to reclaim our narratives from Hollywood, which too often presents our stories through a foreign lens.”

Speaking further, Okhuofu said by adapting Queen Idia’s story for film, she aims to preserve the essence of her legacy, while reaching a global audience through a captivating format that appeals to younger generations. According to her, “Queen Idia was not only a supportive spouse, but a fierce advocate who fought for her husband’s return to power. After his death, she did not falter; she steadfastly protected her son’s claim to the throne while ensuring the safety and prosperity of the entire Benin kingdom. It was her son who commissioned the renowned festac mask—a tribute to her indispensable contributions in preserving the royal lineage—a mask regrettably stolen during the British invasion of Benin. This commission served as a lasting symbol for future kings, a reminder of the sacrifices she made and the strength she exhibited during tumultuous times”.