It portrays Hausa as bandits’: Muslim Group launch campaign to ban Netflix over movie “The Herd”

A growing number of Nigerian Muslims have launched an online campaign calling for the banning of Netflix in Nigeria following the release of the new Nollywood film “The Herd.” The movie, which dramatizes frequent kidnappings by armed groups, has triggered strong reactions, with critics arguing that it portrays Fulani herders and the Hausa ethnic group as violent criminals.

The controversy erupted shortly after the movie’s release on Friday, November 17, 2025, marking the directorial debut of actor Daniel Etim-Effiong. The film quickly gained massive traction, reportedly generating over 30 million views within days. However, while some praised its relevance to Nigeria’s security crisis, others accused it of fueling ethnic profiling. On X (formerly Twitter), several users urged fellow Muslims to delete the Netflix app entirely.

A major concern raised by critics is a teaser scene in which Fulani herders walking with cattle suddenly pull out firearms and attack a passing vehicle. Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad, in a detailed reaction, argued that the scene reinforces a dangerous stereotype that paints all Fulani herders as kidnappers. He stressed that although some bandits are of Fulani origin and have been repeatedly condemned, the majority of herders are peaceful and are themselves victims of insecurity. According to him, the film “creates stigma and deepens ethnic tension,” especially for a group already affected by years of violence and displacement.

Other critics also accused the film of misrepresentation. Some described the storyline as insensitive to Nigeria’s cultural diversity, while others claimed the movie distorts realities by exaggerating one group’s involvement in crime. Social media user @Fulani_Tutor wrote, “Ban Netflix. Ban The Herd. As a Muslim, you have no business with this movie,” echoing the sentiments of many who believe the film unfairly targets a community.

However, defenders of the movie argue that the criticism is misplaced. Commentator Sam Otigba described The Herd as an “uncomfortable mirror” of Nigeria’s current insecurity, praising its casting and storytelling. Actress Uche Jombo also applauded the film’s timing, saying it reflects the nation’s heartbreaking security challenges. Others argued that storytelling is meant to provoke, spark conversation, and reflect social realities—even when uncomfortable.

While the debate grew, popular food critic Opeyemi Famakin dismissed the ban calls as unnecessary, calling the controversy “the best PR” Etim-Effiong could get. Many viewers also posted emotional reactions after watching the movie, noting that its events mirror real-life situations that Nigerians confront daily.

Separately, social media critic Daniel Regha published a lengthy review attacking the film’s plot, stereotypes, continuity errors, and ending, rating it “2/10.” He accused the film of reinforcing negative ethnic labels, portraying different tribes unfairly, and failing to tie up major story arcs.