77: The FESTAC Conspiracy was officially announced recently during a private press event at Filmhouse Cinemas, Lekki, Lagos.
By Fejiro Sagua
The critically acclaimed Nollywood historical drama, 76, directed by Izu Ojukwu and featuring Ramsey Nouah, Rita Dominic, Chidi Mokeme, and Ibinabo Fiberesima, is making a highly anticipated return. Captain Joseph Dewa, played by Ramsey Nouah, will once again grace the screen in a sequel titled 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy, set for release in 2025.
If you haven’t seen 76, now might be the time to catch up. The original film, set six years after the Nigerian Civil War, follows the story of Captain Joseph Dewa, a young officer from the Middle Belt, and his romance with Suzie, an O-level student from the Southeast.
Their love faces trials due to Dewa’s military postings and the political unrest of the time. The stakes heighten when Dewa is accused of involvement in the failed 1976 coup and the assassination of General Murtala Mohammed, leaving his pregnant wife in a heart-wrenching emotional dilemma.
The sequel, 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy, was officially announced on Wednesday, December 4, 2024, during a private press event at Filmhouse Cinemas, Lekki, Lagos. Attended by the cast, crew, special guests, and members of the press, the event featured a trailer screening, behind-the-scenes footage, and a panel discussion.
Director, Izu Ojukwu, executive producers, Prince Tonye Princewill and Adonijah Owiriwa, and lead actor, Ramsey Nouah, answered questions about the film’s production and themes.
Here is all you need to know about 77: The Festac Conspiracy ahead of its release.
Like its prequel, 76, it is also based on true events
The Festival of Arts and Culture of 1977 a.k.a. FESTAC ‘77 was the Second World Black and African Festival of Arts and Culture. It was held in Lagos, Nigeria, from January 15 to February 12, 1977.
The festival was a grand celebration of African and Black cultural heritage, attracting over 17,000 participants from 56 countries across Africa, the Caribbean, North and South America, and Europe. The event featured performances, art exhibitions, literary readings, and discussions highlighting the richness and diversity of African traditions and their influence globally.
The festival took place primarily at the newly constructed National Theatre in Lagos, symbolising Nigeria’s commitment to cultural preservation. The Mask of Ife, an ancient artefact, served as its emblem, representing African unity and heritage.
Prominent figures like Wole Soyinka, Miriam Makeba, Fela Kuti, and Stevie Wonder participated, adding depth to its significance. FESTAC ‘77 also left a lasting legacy, including the development of FESTAC Town and renewed global appreciation for African art and culture, marking it as a landmark moment, celebrating African identity. However, FESTAC ‘77 was the last of its kind.
The same cast and crew were used in 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy
Executive producer Adonijah Owiriwa, who reprises his role as V.M. Jaiye, revealed during the Q&A session that efforts were made to maintain continuity with the original film. The same cast and much of the crew from 76 returned for the sequel.
Actor, Daniel K. Daniel, who plays Corporal Obi, even flew back to Nigeria to reprise his role.
The Actors in 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy Were Drilled by Soldiers in a Military Barracks during the prequel’s production, 76.
In an exclusive interview with Afrocritik, lead actor Ramsey Nouah recalled the rigorous preparation for 76. Actors portraying soldiers underwent nearly three months of intensive military training with real soldiers at Mokola Barracks in Ibadan. However, he pointed out that 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy was not as intense as its prequel.
The budget for 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy was $1.7million
The film’s executive producer, Prince Tonye Princewill, revealed that the production budget for 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy was an impressive $1.7 million. To recreate the era with precision, the team sourced vintage cars and costumes from Lebanon. Although FESTAC Town wasn’t used as a filming location, its design was reimagined to fit the film’s aesthetic. Post-production efforts are still ongoing, ensuring the movie meets the highest standards.
Seun Kuti played the role of his father, Fela Anikulapo Kuti, in the movie
Fela Anikulapo Kuti, who was a sensation in the ‘70s, was represented in the film by his youngest son, Seun Kuti. 77: The FESTAC Conspiracy is slated for release in 2025.
Fejiro Sagua is a writer and film enthusiast who loves diving into the world of movies. She’s always on the lookout for great stories and new films to watch. When she’s not busy writing or watching movies, you can find her reading books, at the gym, creating content, or having interesting conversations with friends, family, or even strangers.