The official release of the film "Valdiodio" is scheduled for Thursday, October 30, 2025, in all theaters across the country. The preview will take place on Wednesday, October 29, at the Pathé Cinema in Dakar and at the Ministerial Spheres in Diamniadio.

In tribute to Valdiodio Ndiaye, a forgotten hero, director Amina Ndiaye Leclerc has produced a 110-minute feature film inspired by true events, to retrace the struggle, sacrifices and injustices suffered by Valdiodio Ndiaye and his family.

Starring Souleymane Sèye Ndiaye, a well-known figure in the world of culture and cinema, this film relive a historic moment in Senegalese independence: the imprisonment of Valdiodio NDiaye, Mamadou Dia, and other political prisoners. Other actors include Alassane Sy, Ibrahima Mbaye Thié, Éric Gomis, Malick Sow, Aminata Niang, Valentine Stach, Brice Dier Koué, and Renaud Farah.

This work pays tribute to a man and a generation who gave their all for Senegal's freedom. Father of Senegal's independence, Valdiodio Ndiaye is one of those courageous men who left their mark on the country's history. He dared to say no to General De Gaulle so that Senegal could achieve its sovereignty. And for his convictions, Valdiodio paid the price by spending twelve long years in Kédougou prison, alongside his compatriots such as Mamadou Dia, Joseph Mbaye, and Ibrahima Sarr.

Valdiodio was imprisoned after being falsely accused of attempting a coup against Senegal's first president, Léopold Sédar Senghor. His wife, Claire, and their children were subsequently expelled from the country.

Born in 1923, Valdiodio Ndiaye was a lawyer and politician. He served several times as a minister under Senghor and then as mayor of Kaolack. He died in 1984, shortly after his release from prison.

This tribute film was presented at the 78th edition of the Cannes Film Festival in May 2025, and it moved the entire audience.