The documentary With Immediate Effect, directed by Efe Omorogbe and produced by Buckwyld Media Network, has won the Outstanding Documentary (Full Length) award at the 2026 Abuja International Film Festival.
The award was presented at the festival’s ceremony in Abuja on October 25, 2026. The film was commissioned by the Murtala Muhammed Foundation to mark the 50th anniversary of the assassination of former Nigerian Head of State, General Murtala Muhammed.
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The documentary examines leadership, patriotism, discipline and national service through the experiences and reflections of Nigerian creatives from different generations, drawing lessons from Muhammed’s relatively brief but consequential time in office.
Its recognition at the festival adds to Buckwyld Media Network’s portfolio of projects exploring Nigerian history, leadership and social issues through film.
With Immediate Effect brings together musicians and creatives to reflect on the ideals associated with the late military leader and their relevance to contemporary Nigeria.
Among those featured are award-winning music producer Cobhams Asuquo, singers Magnito, Qing Madi and Havfy, as well as music legends Chief Commander Ebenezer Obey and Queen Salawa Abeni.
Through their perspectives, the film explores questions about patriotism, discipline and decisive leadership, connecting historical experiences with the concerns of younger and older generations of Nigerians.
The documentary also revisits the events surrounding Muhammed’s assassination in February 1976, offering a personal account from Master Warrant Officer Michael Eruwe (retd.), the late general’s orderly and the only survivor of the assassination, according to the production statement.
His account provides a first-hand perspective on the incident that brought Muhammed’s life and leadership to an abrupt end.
Beyond his public life, the film explores Muhammed’s role as a father and family man through contributions from his children, Dr Aisha Muhammed-Oyebode and Risqua Muhammed.
Their reflections offer a more personal perspective on the former Head of State, complementing the documentary’s examination of his political legacy and the circumstances surrounding his death.
By combining historical recollections, personal testimony and creative interpretations, the production seeks to present a broader picture of Muhammed’s life and the leadership ideals associated with his time in office.
The award adds to Buckwyld Media Network’s body of work spanning documentary and film production.
Its previous projects include Adda: Empowered by Education — The Justice Zainab Bulkachuwa Story, which focuses on Nigeria’s first female President of the Court of Appeal.
The company was also associated with Power of 1, a 2018 film featuring Nigerian actors including Alex Ekubo, Ramsey Nouah, Annie Macaulay-Idibia and Michelle Dede.
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The recognition of With Immediate Effect at the Abuja International Film Festival further highlights the role of documentary filmmaking in revisiting important moments in Nigeria’s history and encouraging conversations about leadership, public service and national identity.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
