If there was ever a red carpet that doubled as a cultural runway, it was last night’s premiere of Abanisete: The Ancestor. Forget minimalism — this was a love letter to heritage wrapped in rich fabrics, bold colours, and the kind of statement accessories you can hear before you see.

Omowunmi Dada floated in like she had just stepped out of a royal portrait — a burgundy boubou with textured draping, a crimson cap perfectly perched, and a cascade of beaded necklaces that could probably tell their own ancestral stories. Gold bracelets added just the right whisper of sparkle.

Then came Adedimeji Lateef, serving full-on regal realness in a blue agbada detailed with gold and cream. The geometric embroidery across his chest was pure ceremonial drama, while the matching cap and pristine white beads tied everything together like the perfect bow on a present you definitely can’t wait to open.

Itele D Icon, producer and co-director of the film, went deep maroon with his agbada — accented with blue and gold striping and finished with fringe so dramatic it practically had its own choreography. Add in a layered bead necklace and a traditional fila, and you’ve got a look that could headline its own cultural festival.

Abanisete: The Ancestor is a film rooted in heritage, mysticism, and the threads that connect the living to those who came before. And judging by the premiere, the story started before the opening credits rolled — right there on the red carpet. The film hits cinemas nationwide on 15 August.

See how they showed up:

Omowunmi Dada

Adedimeji Lateef

Itele d Icon

Mo Bimpe Adedimeji

Gabriel Afolayan

Broda Shaggi

Umeokeke Belinda Rita Onyinyechukwu

Temitope Solaja