An emerging Nigerian film production company, The Trybe, has announced the completion of its debut short film, I Find the Defendant…, a courtroom drama that examines issues of fame, power, consent and justice.

Set in Lagos, the film tells the story of a Grammy-nominated Nigerian jazz star whose career is thrown into turmoil after he is accused of rape by his girlfriend. As the case unfolds in a tense courtroom atmosphere, questions of truth, influence and accountability take centre stage.

Directed by Michael Ajayi and produced by Oguguah Denzel Ugochukwu, the film explores the complexities surrounding sexual assault allegations and the role of public opinion in shaping perceptions of guilt and innocence.

The cast includes Belu Ogbuka, Empress Allen, Precious Onyekwelibe, Aaron Ayo Akinyemi, Benedict Emmanuel Tochukwu Odoh, Constance Nnenna Izuogu, Nisola Martins and Joy Ozichi, whose performances bring the emotionally charged story to life.

Speaking on the project, Director, Michael Ajayi, described the film as an exploration of differing perspectives surrounding a single incident.

“I Find the Defendant is a Rashomon effect that explores separate accounts of the same incident. Was a young woman sexually abused or was a man falsely accused?” he said.

According to the filmmakers, the production seeks to spark conversations around consent, accountability, celebrity culture and the pursuit of justice, subjects that continue to generate debate both in Nigeria and globally.

The film has been submitted to major film festivals and is currently being prepared for entry into international festival circuits. Details of screenings and future engagements are expected to be announced in the coming months.

The Trybe is a collective of young creatives committed to telling authentic African stories that challenge societal norms while providing quality entertainment. The company disclosed that about 95 per cent of its members are graduates of the 2025 third intake of the EbonyLife Creative Academy.