Film Screening: The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos

Join us for a screening of The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos, followed by a fireside chat and Q&A with the film’s producers and directors.
La Nouvelle Scène Gilles Desjardins
333 King Edward Ave
Ottawa, ON, K1N 7M5
Directed by the Agbajowo Collective, The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos details the impact of the destruction of Otodo Gbame, a floating waterfront settlement in Lagos, Nigeria. The film follows a young mother who discovers a corrupt plan to destroy the informal settlement and build a luxury condo development in its stead and her attempts to unite her community in resistance. Although it is a fictionalized account, the story is based on the true events of the Otodo Gbame evictions of 2016 and 2017, where 30,000 residents were forcibly evicted in a series of attacks by police and armed aggressors. The film premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in September 2024.
The issues explored in the film have been the focus of IDRC-supported research since 2019, led by Justice & Empowerment Initiatives. This research partner is evaluating the efficacy of an inter-city network of community paralegals who receive its training and support and who serve hundreds of urban poor communities in Nigeria, including the former residents of Otodo Gbame. Read more about the film and how legal empowerment initiatives can make a difference.
This event will be held in person at La Nouvelle Scène Gilles Desjardins in Ottawa and will include light snacks of Nigerian cuisine. Seats are limited and registration is required – register early, as the event is likely to sell out!
Please note that the screening will be offered only in English.