The Herd (2025 film)
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| The Herd | |
|---|---|
| Directed by | Daniel Etim-Effiong |
| Starring | |
Release date |
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| Country | Nigeria |
| Languages | English, Yoruba, Igbo, Hausa, Nigerian pidgin |
The Herd is a 2025 Nigerian crime thriller directed by Daniel Etim Effiong and co-produced by FilmOne Studios, ToriTori Films, Serendipity HHC, and Airscape. The film marks Effiong's directorial debut.[1] It was released theatrically on 17 October 2025 and stars Effiong, Kunle Remi, Genoveva Umeh, Deyemi Okanlawon, Linda Ejiofor, Mercy Aigbe, Adam Garba, Abba Ali Zaky, and Norbert Young.[2] The film revolves around kidnapping by herdsmen and it generated reactions and grievances from the Arewa community, emphasizing that it creates a stereotype against the Muslim community.[3] Director Etim-Effiong has described the film as a personal and professional milestone for him.[4]
The Herd opens with a happy day, the wedding of Fola and Derin. After the wedding party, they were headed home, driven by Gosi, Fola's best friend, when they were attacked by kidnappers disguised as herders. The groom was murdered on the spot while he attempted to run away, leaving his newlywed wife, Gosi and other victims.[5] The kidnapping caused a strong fight for survival among the victims, while different levels of betrayal were also displayed among the kidnappers leading to violence and compromise.[3]