A Catholic missionary priest, Fr Kelvin Ugwu, working in Gambia, has raised concerns about the portrayal of grandmothers as witches in Nigeria’s Nollywood film industry. In a recent post on his Facebook page, Ugwu criticized Nollywood for perpetuating stereotypes and promoting supernatural beliefs.
According to Ugwu, Nollywood has popularized the idea of elderly women turning into witches and flying at night to harm their grandchildren. The priest also pointed out that the film industry has played a role in normalizing the concept of people or spirits teleporting to different locations at will.
Furthermore, Ugwu highlighted Nollywood’s portrayal of animals like owls, cats, bats, and wall geckos as demonic creatures. He also criticized the industry for linking mental health issues and homelessness to ritual sacrifices.
In his post, Ugwu emphasized that Nollywood often depicts pastors, prophets, and priests as the ultimate solution to problems depicted in movies. He noted that even real-life actors and actresses sometimes believe in the fantastical narratives they portray on screen.
The priest expressed concern that the prevalence of these themes in Nollywood films has influenced viewers’ beliefs and perceptions. He recounted instances where sick actors sought healing from individuals claiming supernatural powers, only to be disappointed.
Ugwu’s critique of Nollywood serves as a reminder to audiences about the power of media in shaping societal norms and beliefs. By shedding light on the industry’s portrayal of supernatural phenomena and spiritual figures, the priest encourages viewers to critically analyze the content they consume.
As international readers from diverse backgrounds, it is essential to consider how media representations can impact cultural perceptions and beliefs. Ugwu’s observations invite us to reflect on the influence of popular culture on our understanding of spirituality and the supernatural.
Through his thoughtful commentary, Fr Kelvin Ugwu prompts us to question the narratives presented in entertainment media and consider the implications of sensationalized storytelling on our collective consciousness.
