Mount Zion Films Do Not Demonize Yoruba Culture, We Only Expose Darkness

The controversy began following the announcement that Agbara Nla, one of Mount Zion Films’ most popular titles, is set to return to cinemas on October 1, 2026, more than three decades after its original release. The announcement triggered reactions on social media platform , where a user identified as Ifẹ́ṣọlá accused the film ministry of consistently depicting Yoruba spirituality as evil while promoting Christianity as superior.

The user argued that such portrayals have influenced public perception over the years, adding that audiences are now beginning to critically question those narratives.

Responding to the criticism, Joshua Mike-Bamiloye dismissed the claims as a misrepresentation of Mount Zion Films’ mission, insisting that the ministry does not demonize Yoruba culture. He stated that the productions actively reflect Yoruba identity through language, traditions, proverbs, royal heritage, and cultural expressions commonly featured in its films.

He cited the character Abejoye as an example, noting that the character’s storyline demonstrates how cultural identity can coexist with Christian faith, as it maintains strong ties to Yoruba customs and language even after spiritual transformation.

Joshua further rejected suggestions that Mount Zion Films frames Christianity as a foreign belief system opposed to Yoruba spirituality, stressing that the ministry’s message focuses on the contrast between light and darkness rather than cultural opposition.

He also dismissed claims that the ministry’s success was built on portraying Yoruba spirituality negatively, arguing that only a fraction of its over 200 films are set in traditional contexts. He maintained that the criticism was based on sentiment rather than a full assessment of the ministry’s work, adding that viewers should engage the films in their entirety before drawing conclusions.

He concluded by reaffirming the continued relevance of the gospel message, noting that the upcoming re-release of Agbara Nla on October 1, 2026, reinforces the enduring message that the name of Jesus remains above all.