The Herd has become a lightning rod in Nollywood, igniting conversation across social media and news outlets. Directed and led by Daniel Etim-Effiong in his directorial debut, this crime thriller blends familial drama, suspense, and brutal realism to reflect a deeply unsettling national truth. The film premiered in cinemas on October 17, 2025, and has since sparked both praise and controversy.
What People Are Saying?
Public reaction to The Herd has been intense and polarised. Some hail it as a brave indictment of insecurity in Nigeria, noting that the film is a brutal yet accurate reflection of Nigeria’s banditry nightmare. On the flip side, critics argue that the film dangerously links criminal violence to Fulani herders.
For instance, Bashir Ahmad condemned the portrayal as “a dangerous profiling of an ethnic group,” and sparked debate about the responsibility of storytellers in Nigeria’s fraught security landscape.
Box-Office & Impact
In its opening week, The Herd grossed around ₦30.1 million, a strong debut for a Nollywood thriller. By its third week, it had raked in a remarkable ₦166.2 million. Daniel Etim-Effiong publicly celebrated hitting ₦80 million in just ten days, crediting audiences for the film’s success.
Cast & Characters
- Daniel Etim-Effiong — Gosi/Director
- Genoveva Umeh — Derin
- Kunle Remi — Fola, the groom
- Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman — Adama, Gosi’s wife
- Deyemi Okanlawon
- Mercy Aigbe
- Tina Mba
- Norbert Young
- Patrick Doyle
- Femi Jacobs (mentioned in box-office news)
- Amal Umar — Habiba, a gang member
- Abba Ali Zaky — Halil
- Lateef Adedimeji — a church official involved in crime
Our Rating
From our stable, ‘The Herd‘ earns an aggregate rating of 8.5/10 and here’s how that breaks down:
1. Plot – 8/10
The narrative delivers a tense exploration of banditry, family bonds, and the harsh realities of insecurity. The plot moves with urgency and reflects real-world issues without losing its emotional core. The depth of the movie’s theme resonates strongly with viewers, even though some critics believe the portrayal of herders risks reinforcing stereotypes.
2. Acting – 9/10
Daniel Etim-Effiong, Genoveva Umeh, Kunle Remi, and Linda Ejiofor-Suleiman anchor the story with grounded, expressive performances. Supporting actors like Tina Mba, Deyemi Okanlawon, and Norbert Young bring sharp intensity that elevates the film. Reviewers consistently highlight the cast’s emotional delivery and believable reactions to high-stakes scenes.
3. Direction – 8.5/10
For a directorial debut, Etim-Effiong demonstrates impressive control over pacing, tension, and character movement. The direction balances action with emotion, keeping scenes tight and purposeful. While bold and ambitious, a few transitions could have been smoother, but the overall execution remains commendable.
4. Cinematography & Visual – 8/10
The visual tone captures fear, isolation, and the harshness of rural conflict. Chase sequences, night scenes, and emotional close-ups are handled with clarity and intention. A few shots could have benefited from sharper framing, but the film’s visuals strongly support its narrative weight.
5. Audience Impact & Social Relevance – 9/10
The movie’s cultural footprint is undeniable. It sparked national conversation, generated widespread online debates, and pushed audiences to confront the reality of insecurity. Many viewers praised its honesty, while others raised concerns about ethnic representation. Its impact is significant, immediate, and long-lasting.
Final Thoughts
Overall, “The Herd” isn’t just any movie; it’s one sparking a national conversation. This is thanks to its gripping plot, powerful performances, and unflinching themes that capture moments of fear and urgency in Nigeria’s social fabric. While critics debate its portrayal of ethnicity and violence, many agree it serves as a mirror to the real crisis of insecurity. Whether you watch for the performances or to engage with the deeper message, The Herd will resonate long after the credits roll.
Another good news is the fact that the director of this timely and fantastic movie has been nominated for the Uncutxtra “Business Icon of the Year” Award. Vote for him and purchase a ticket to see all your faves at the event.
