By Damiete Braide
Renowned documentary artist and festival manager, Samuel Osaze, has achieved a significant milestone with his documentary film, Ema/Udeh (Ancient Healing Tattoo of the Esan People), earning a nomination at the inaugural Authentic Global Film Awards. Selected from over 3,000 submissions worldwide, the film stands as a testament to Osaze’s dedication to storytelling and cultural preservation. The prestigious awards ceremony is set to take place on May 21, 2025, in Los Angeles, celebrating outstanding cinematic works that push the boundaries of filmmaking.
Osaze’s documentary explores the fascinating tradition of Ema/Udeh, an ancient tattooing practice among the Esan people of Edo State, Nigeria. The tradition, which blends artistry with healing, has been used for generations to treat splenomegaly (swollen spleen), a condition affecting the abdominal region. Beyond its medicinal applications, the tattoo carries deep cultural and spiritual significance, serving as a symbol of identity and resilience within the Esan community.
Through compelling storytelling and in-depth research, Ema/Udeh seeks to answer critical questions about this enduring practice. How does it compare to modern tattooing? Why do some Esan people continue to prefer it over conventional medical treatments? Is splenomegaly particularly prevalent in Esan communities, and how do other cultures address it? Most importantly, can this practice be integrated into modern healthcare systems while maintaining its cultural integrity?
The documentary features diverse perspectives, including those of traditional practitioners, local community members, medical experts, and academics. By fostering a dialogue between tradition and modern medicine, Osaze aims to highlight the potential for collaboration between indigenous healing methods and contemporary healthcare. The film challenges viewers to reconsider the intersection of culture, art, and medicine, illustrating how Ema/Udeh artists are not merely tattooists but also healers preserving an age-old heritage.
As part of its nomination, Ema/Udeh is now eligible for non-exclusive distribution on Authentic TV (ATV), a global streaming platform dedicated to showcasing exceptional films that promote diversity, inclusion, and cultural awareness. This opportunity could significantly expand the film’s reach, bringing the unique Esan tradition to a worldwide audience.
Dr. Gershom Sikaala, a representative of the Authentic Global Film Awards, extended his heartfelt congratulations to Osaze, acknowledging his creative achievements and the impact of his work. “This nomination honors your creative achievement and invites you to share your story with the world,” he stated.
The Authentic Global Film Awards were established to recognise groundbreaking storytelling that pushes creative boundaries. The festival, which highlights films that emphasise peace, cultural diversity, and sustainability, offers prestigious prizes, including a $10,000 award for the Feature Film of the Year.
Osaze’s nomination marks a significant moment in global filmmaking, as Ema/Udeh brings attention to the rich heritage of the Esan people while sparking conversations about the coexistence of traditional healing and modern healthcare.