Written by Musa Jeffery David, "Hijack ’93" takes a gripping and suspenseful look at the true events surrounding the October 25, 1993, hijacking of Nigerian Airways Flight 212. The film tells the story of four young hijackers—Richard Ogunderu, Kabir Adenuga, Benneth Oluwadaisi, and Kenny Rasaq-Lawal—who commandeered an Abuja-bound flight from Lagos, sparking an international crisis that lasted three days. While staying true to its historical roots, Hijack '93 also uses creative license to add depth to its characters and heighten the drama.
The real-life hijacking was motivated by political frustrations, as the young men demanded the restoration of democratic rule in Nigeria, a nation under interim military control. The film draws on this historical context but shifts certain details to build a more intense emotional arc for each hijacker. In the movie, each character is given a symbolic nickname that reflects their personal motivations and tragic pasts, adding psychological layers that make their actions more relatable, if not entirely justifiable. This fictional twist deepens the audience’s connection to the story, portraying the hijackers not just as political radicals but as individuals grappling with disillusionment and desperation.
The screenplay does a commendable job capturing the high stakes inside the plane, with tensions mounting as the hours tick by. The hijackers’ demand for political change escalates as they threaten to set the plane ablaze within 72 hours if their pleas are not acknowledged. The film’s depiction of the hostages—particularly a group of high-profile Nigerian officials and China’s then-Vice President, Rong Yiren—adds another layer of geopolitical tension to the crisis. The portrayal of negotiations is tense, highlighting the slow and delicate dance of diplomacy that ultimately saves many lives.
Musa Jeffery David’s film excels in depicting the claustrophobic environment of the hijacked plane, creating a palpable sense of dread. The characters are trapped not just physically but morally, as the hijackers and passengers grapple with the ethical complexities of their situation. The scenes inside the plane alternate between frantic outbursts and uneasy calm, as both sides realize the fragility of their situation.
One of the most heart-wrenching moments comes when, in the film’s climactic scene, armed forces storm the aircraft. While based on true events, the film amps up the intensity of the final rescue, underscoring the human cost of the standoff. A crew member loses their life during the operation—a tragic reminder of the consequences of extremism and the high price of political dissent.
Hijack '93 is not just a retelling of a historical event but a well-crafted thriller that explores the underlying motivations of its characters. Its deviations from history, including fictionalized backstories and character dynamics, enhance the emotional stakes without undermining the gravity of the real-life incident. The film captures the political unrest of 1990s Nigeria while delivering a pulse-pounding, thought-provoking experience. Through its blend of fact and fiction, Hijack '93 leaves viewers reflecting on the nature of rebellion, justice, and the heavy toll of violence.
Final Score- [8/10]
Reviewed by - Neerja Choudhuri
Follow @NeerjaCH on Twitter
Publisher at Midgard Times