Madam Tinubu was a 19th-century Business Icon from Lagos and Egba who at one time controlled Lagos. This post will tell you all you need to know about her.
Slave trade is an interesting history, leaving many divided on where to stand on if Madam Tinubu was a villain or hero.
Watch Video of Madam Tinubu biography, history and full story by Tolu Ayeni, Kikio.
Efunroye: The Unicorn or Slave Merchant?
She is an historical figure which divides opinions. The video shared on my TikTok page which has over 200k views, shows this.
The language used by some cannot be printed, with it being my only post with the anti-bully feature on that platform.
Interestingly, a well known Nollywood actor, Faithia Williams, produced biopic movie titled ‘Efunroye: The Unicorn.’
In a tweet by the actress on October 22, 2024, she wrote, with the image of the movie’s cover, “Power. Trade. Legacy. She was more than a warrior, she was a ruler who rewrote history.”
In response, some users praised the actress’ efforts to represent one of Yoruba’s most powerful women in history, while others deemed the biopic film superfluous, claiming that Tinubu was well-known for acquiring money during the slave trade era, which was evident at the time.
From the Producer “Faithia Balogun“: MY RESPONSE TO THE REACTIONS TRAILING MY UPCOMING MOVIE, Efunroye Tinubu “The Unicorn of Her Time” – UPCOMING MOVIE
The reactions generated by the announcement of my upcoming movie, “Efunroye: The Unicorn,” underscore just how passionate we all are about our history and our nation, Nigeria. I am deeply thankful to both my loyal fans and non-fans, for the overwhelming support this project is receiving. With over six million views on my post, I do not take your support for granted-your interest and feedback are truly appreciated. However, the passion and emotions surrounding this project (especially on Twitter), while inspiring, have led to some misconceptions that I would like to clarify.
Firstly, “Efunroye: The Unicorn” is not a promotional piece intended to glorify or whitewash a divisive historical figure like Madam Efunroye Tinubu. Nor does it carry any political intent or affiliation. This film is purely a work of artistic interpretation and storytelling. As a filmmaker, my goal is to bring Nigerian stories to life on screen, and this is no exception. The movie is an attempt to present Madam Tinubu’s life in a balanced and nuanced way, showcasing her triumphs, challenges, and the complex legacy she left behind. It is not an effort to reshape or glorify the historical narrative.Like all historical figures, Madam Tinubu’s story is layered, and this film aims to capture both her strengths and controversies. – Efunroye Tinubu “The Unicorn of Her Time” – UPCOMING MOVIE
To clarify further, “Efunroye: The Unicorn” has not yet been filmed.The project is currently in its development and pre-production phases. I am dedicated to ensuring that this story is told in the most authentic and impactful way possible. This is a significant project, and my team and I are working diligently to ensure that it comes to life with the care and attention it deserves.I deeply appreciate the passion this movie has stirred, and I hope that when it is released, viewers will approach it with an open mind and appreciate it as the work of art it was always intended to be.
Profile and history of Efunroye Tinubu
Born in the Ojokodo forest area of Egbaland in the year 1810, she was a major figure in Lagos and Abeokuta politics.
In the year 1833, after the death of her first husband, Madam Tinubu remarried to Oba Adele Ajosun.
She moved with the exiled Oba to Badagry, which was the traditional place of refuge for Lagos monarchs.
Using the connections of Oba Adele, Efunroye Tinubu established a successful trade network with European merchants.
On one occasion in Abeokuta, she was alleged to have sold a young boy into slavery and was accused of it.
When arraigned before Ogundipe Alatise over the matter, Tinubu reportedly explained that she has a large house-hold and must feed them well.
There are numerous fascinating anecdotes regarding Madam Efunroye Tinubu. Oladipo Yemitan, a Nigerian historian, wrote her biography, Madame Tinubu: Merchant and Kingmaker, which explores her perspective on slave selling.
Even after moving from Lagos, Madam Tinubu remained a prominent personality. She maintained her political efforts in Abeokuta, where she helped with the leadership selection process.
Tinubu passed away in 1887, leaving a complex legacy. While her involvement in the trade practices of her time is a debated aspect of her story, her political skills and economic accomplishments remain part of her historical significance.
Today, her name lives on in Lagos at Tinubu Square, honoring her impact on the city’s history. Interestingly, following her death, those she had once employed inherited her possessions, adding an unexpected twist to her life’s narrative.
