Hijack ‘93 is produced by Play Network Studios in collaboration with Native Media TV. The film currently holds the third spot on the Netflix Global Chart.
Since its release on October 25, 2024, the film has garnered over 10.6 million watch hours and more than 7 million views. This has made it so popular among audiences worldwide.
Drawing inspiration from real events in Nigeria, the film captures the dramatic hijacking that occurred on October 25, 1993. On that fateful day, four young Nigerian men seized control of a Nigerian Airways flight en route from Lagos to Abuja. The names of these men are Richard Ogunderu, Kabir Adenuga, Benneth Oluwadaisi, and Kenny Rasaq-Lawal.
In a daring act of protest against the June 12 elections, they diverted the plane and forced the pilots to land in the Niger Republic.
Their bold actions aimed to pressure the government into handing over power to MKO Abiola, the presumed winner of the annulled presidential elections.
Charles Okpaleke, the studio’s visionary, first announced the plans for “Hijack ‘93” in 2021.
This was after building on the momentum of previous successful Play Network productions like “Blood Vessel” and “Glamour Girls”.
He emphasized that this film would go beyond merely recounting past events. It would incorporate firsthand testimonies from those directly involved.
This approach adds authenticity to the narrative. Also brings deeper insight into the motivations and consequences of the incident.
The film showcases an impressive cast. The cast includes Jemima Osunde, Idia Aisien, Ego Nwosu, John Dumelo, Yakubu Muhammed, Efa Iwara, and Nancy Isime.
Joining them are talented actors Sharon Ooja, Sani Muazu, Adam Garba, Allison Emmanuel, Oluwaseyi Akinola, and Nnamdi Agbo.
Together, they deliver compelling performances that capture the intensity and emotional depth of this historic event.
With its gripping storyline and strong cast, “Hijack ‘93” continues to captivate viewers and build on the legacy of Nigerian cinema.
