Fr Kelvin Ugwu, a Catholic priest based in Gambia, recently shared his concerns about the portrayal of grandmothers as witches in Nollywood movies. He also criticized the industry for perpetuating the belief in supernatural abilities such as disappearing and reappearing at will.
In a candid Facebook post on Wednesday, Fr Kelvin expressed his views on the influence of Nollywood on societal perceptions. He pointed out that the industry often portrays elderly women as witches who fly at night to harm their grandchildren, and promotes the notion of individuals or spirits possessing the ability to teleport.
Fr Kelvin highlighted Nollywood’s portrayal of pastors and prophets as the ultimate solution to all problems, further reinforcing the influence of supernatural beliefs in society.
He emphasized how Nollywood often associates animals like owls, cats, bats, and wall geckos with demonic forces, perpetuating misconceptions about mental illness and attributing it to sacrifices.
Furthermore, Fr Kelvin criticized the reliance on spiritual leaders in Nollywood narratives, where pastors and prophets are depicted as powerful figures capable of overcoming any challenge.
He concluded by lamenting the pervasive influence of these narratives on viewers, noting how even actors and actresses themselves internalize these beliefs. Fr Kelvin cited instances where Nollywood personalities sought spiritual healing from individuals like Mr Abido Shaker, only to realize the limitations of such practices.
Fr Kelvin’s remarks shed light on the broader societal impact of Nollywood’s storytelling, urging reflection on the portrayal of supernatural phenomena and its implications on cultural beliefs and practices.
