Lateef Adedimeji continues to solidify his position as one of Nollywood’s most versatile and talented actors. He is known for his ability to embody diverse characters with precision. His latest film, Lisabi 2: A Legend Is Born, has garnered so much attention and reaction from viewers nationwide.
Following the success of Lisabi: The Uprising (released in November 2024), this sequel delves deeper into the story of Lisabi, a legendary figure in Yoruba history, and the 18th-century Egba people’s resistance against the Oyo Empire.
The film masterfully blends historical drama and mythology, immersing viewers in a rich cultural tapestry that sparks pride and nostalgia. From the opening flashback where Lisabi (Lateef Adedimeji) speaks with his father (Adebayo Salami) about the betrayal of the Egba people by their former allies, the Oyo Empire, the narrative is gripping.
Picking up where the first film ended, Lisabi returns home triumphant after killing Sangodeyi (Ibrahim Chatta), the ruthless head of Oyo’s tax collectors. Though his people celebrate, the victory is short-lived as the Oyo Empire, led by the furious Alaafin (Odunlade Adekola), vows retaliation.
The Egba warriors, trained by Lisabi and empowered by spiritual abilities granted by four powerful gods, rise to the challenge. Their ambushes and fearless resistance send shockwaves through the Oyo forces, culminating in the gruesome delivery of Sangodeyi’s severed head to the Alaafin’s palace.
Enraged by the Egba’s defiance, the Alaafin instructs his formidable general, Aronimoja (Deyemi Okanlawon), to exact revenge. He orders the massacre of 6,000 Egba people in retaliation for the deaths of 600 Oyo soldiers. As tensions escalate, the Egba warriors seek blessings and protection from Ogun, the god of iron and war. Sacred rituals strengthen their resolve, setting the stage for an epic showdown.
The battle scenes are intense, blending physical combat with spiritual intervention. Tragedy strikes when Aronimoja kills Lisabi’s closest ally, Salako (Ibrahim Yekini Icon). Consumed by grief, Lisabi unleashes his full fury, aided by Ogun’s witches, whose magic causes chaos in the Oyo ranks. In a climactic duel, Lisabi confronts Aronimoja, ultimately defeating him and securing victory for the Egba people.
Amidst the celebration, cracks in Lisabi’s leadership begin to surface. Jealousy and betrayal from within his inner circle—led by Bejide (Olumide Oworu) and Odunbamitefa (Gabriel Afolayan)—culminate in the murder of Lisabi’s confidante, Ikeola (Adebimpe Adedimeji). Devastated, Lisabi seeks solace and guidance from his gods.
Haunted by Ikeola’s ghost, who accuses him of driving her to her tragic fate, Lisabi confronts his failures as a leader. When the Egba people offer him the title of warlord, he rejects the honor. Instead, he chooses to transcend the physical world, disappearing into the spiritual realm alongside his gods. This enigmatic ending cements Lisabi’s legacy as a selfless hero and a symbol of freedom.
The film’s strengths lie in its striking visuals, detailed set design, and cultural authenticity. The costumes and landscapes vividly bring 18th-century Yoruba history to life, while the spiritual elements, including divine intervention and traditional chants, elevate the narrative beyond a standard historical drama.
However, Lisabi 2 is not without flaws. The inconsistency in language is unsatisfactory. The Egba dialect was predominantly spoken by Lateef Adedimeji, while other characters default to basic Yoruba, detracting from the film’s authenticity. Olumide Oworu’s performance as Bejide falls flat, with his lack of fluency in Yoruba diluting the emotional weight of his role.
Odunlade Adekola’s portrayal of the Alaafin is commanding, but his character’s abrupt disappearance leaves viewers yearning for closure. Similarly, Ikeola’s death feels unearned, undermining her established strength and audacity. Minor production errors, such as the visible use of a teddy bear as a baby prop in a pivotal flashback, detract from the overall immersion.
Despite its imperfections, Lisabi 2: A Legend Is Born is a powerful tribute to Yoruba history and the enduring legacy of Lisabi and the Egba people. Its blend of mythology, history, and culture makes it a must-watch for those passionate about Nigeria’s rich heritage.
With its compelling narrative, intense battles, and emotional depth, Lisabi 2 transcends its shortcomings to deliver a story of courage, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom. While it may not be perfect, it stands as one of Nollywood’s finest historical dramas, ensuring that Lisabi’s story will continue to inspire generations to come.
