Biodun Stephen’s “Muri and Ko” with Kunle Remi Leads Nollywood Films at the Box Office

By Oratokhai Jesusemen O.

The Nollywood film Muri and Ko, directed by Biodun Stephen and starring Kunle Remi, has made a significant leap at the Nigerian box office, climbing from the sixth to the second spot. According to the latest data published by the Cinema Exhibitors Association of Nigeria (CEAN) on June 22, 2024, the film has grossed a total of ₦50.1 million.

The CEAN report, which covers the top 10 films exhibited in Nigeria from June 14, 2024, to June 20, 2024, highlights Muri and Ko‘s impressive performance. The film follows the gripping story of a thief named Muri, who unknowingly steals a car with a child inside. Despite having a ₦10 million bounty on his head and evading the police for alleged kidnapping, Muri and the child form an unexpected bond.

In comparison, the Hollywood film Bad Boys: Ride or Die, which has dominated the number one spot for three consecutive weeks, earned ₦100.8 million during the same period, bringing its total gross to ₦216.5 million.

Muri and Ko’s weekly earnings of ₦41.5 million have propelled it past Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti, the previous top-grossing Nollywood film, which has now been ranked fourth. Funmilayo Ransome-Kuti garnered ₦15 million during the period, raising its total earnings to ₦156.5 million.

Meanwhile, the action thriller Criminal, which previously held the fourth position, has dropped to the sixth spot, earning ₦8.2 million in the past week, and bringing its total gross to ₦45.7 million.

The remarkable success of Muri and Ko highlights the growing popularity and quality of Nollywood productions. As audiences continue to show strong support for local films, the Nigerian film industry is poised for further growth and recognition on both national and international stages.