The Portrayal of Indigenous Beliefs and Religious Conflict in Yoruba: The Case of Tunde Kelani’s Agogo Èèwò

Abstract

This paper examined the portrayal of indigenous beliefs and religious conflict in Tunde Kelani’s Agogo Èèwò. Guided by cinema theory, which viewed African films as tools for cultural resistance and identity preservation, the paper adopted a qualitative design with content analysis. The film was purposely selected because it directly engaged Yoruba traditional religion and its encounters with Christianity. Key scenes showing rituals, oath-taking, divination, and interfaith clashes were analyzed and grouped thematically. Findings revealed that the film affirmed the role of Yoruba spirituality in kingship, morality, and justice, with Ifá divination and sacred oaths presented as systems of accountability. The indirect presence of deities was portrayed as a moral force, while the enchanted drum symbolized checks on corruption. At the same time, the film highlighted conflicts between Christianity and traditional religion, reflecting wider tensions in Yoruba society. The paper concluded that Agogo Èèwò functioned as a cultural archive and recommended that cinema be used to preserve indigenous heritage, foster dialogue, and strengthen cultural identity in Nigeria.