Faosiyat Motunrayo Ewebiyi

KILANKO draws a powerful line between belief and medicine, revealing the parallel suffering of the Abiku child, treated through traditional rituals, and sickle cell, managed by orthodox care—different paths, same devastating grief. Through this painful intersection, the film exposes how loss remains constant while solutions differ, and boldly explores the unwavering depth, resilience, and sacrifices of African mothers who carry love, faith, and sorrow in equal measure. As love battles tradition, faith, and fear, the film exposes the hidden cost of motherhood and asks a haunting question: who pays the price when a child is labeled invincible?.

Set in early 20th-century colonial Lagos, the film chronicles the defiance of Oba Esugbayi Eleko against British colonial authorities. The narrative follows his struggle to protect the cultural dignity and freedom of his people against unjust policies, such as the imposition of water rates.

A Stranger Rises. A Tyrant Strikes. A Kingdom Trembles