AGUDE: Highlighting an African Woman’s Strong Protest Against Gender Bias and Male Dominance
Domestic violence has always been a widespread issue, especially in Africa, leading to countless stories of pain and suffering.
In cases of domestic violence, whether it involves physical harm, intimidation, sexual assault, or emotional abuse, women are usually the primary victims.
Traditionally, domestic violence was often thought of as a man abusing his wife. However, today, there are also instances where women are the aggressors, particularly among wealthy women who have more financial power.
A new film called “Agude” (meaning “a very special treasure”) explores the story of an African woman challenging male dominance and gender inequality in her era.
“Agude,” the main character, is a powerful woman both economically and spiritually.
The film’s producer, Asiat Moromoke Olawale, emphasized in an interview that domestic violence is inhumane and often stems from misunderstandings about culture. She hopes the film will highlight the issue of domestic violence as a societal problem, not just a cultural one.
Asiat, who also stars in the film, shared an experience of witnessing a woman being beaten by her husband. She believes the film will show the cruelty of such acts.
“Agude” is a fictional story. Its main message is about the power and resilience of women. The title means that everyone must respect powerful women.
In the story, the protagonist, Agude, decides never to be controlled by any man. She buys a male slave and makes him her husband. Despite her wealth, she refuses to join a group of powerful occultic women. These women threaten her, even suggesting one of them could turn into a man to marry her. As a result, she develops a deep hatred for men, treating her slave husband cruelly.
Asiat began her acting career in 1987 and faced many challenges, including not being taken seriously by producers and lack of support from her parents. Despite these hurdles, she persevered with the help of a supportive cousin.
Her first film, “Efunyela,” was released in 2020. It focused on the struggles of women in marriage and emphasized the importance of carefully choosing a spouse. The lead character, after suffering through three bad marriages, changes her name and finds happiness with a new husband.
“Agude” features prominent actors like Dele Odule, Peju Ogunmola, and others. The film is set to be released before the end of the year and will be marketed by Okiki Film Production.
Asiat advises couples to be patient and remember the love that brought them together, encouraging mutual respect and understanding in their relationships.
