Nollywood's Lost Okonkwo: 11 Nigerian Stars Elba Edged Out

 

Who can be the Next Okonkwo?

The classic novel of one of Nigeria's Foremost authors and playwright-- Chinua Achebe, Things Fall Apart written in 1958 was made into a movie by the BBC in 1987, 29 years after the first book was printed.

This movie helped launch the careers of one of Nollywood's greatest legends Pete Edochie who played the iconic role of Okonkwo, and others like the Late Justus Esiri and Fabian Adibe.

It is no longer news that a re-imagining of this 1987 classic has been announced, and this time British actor Idris Elba slated to star as Okonkwo.

A lot of dust was raised with many questioning the rationale behind choosing Idris to play the role, especially with many wonderful actors of Igbo decent who can deliver the role exceptionally, sidelined for a Brit who is quite distant from the realities of the Igbo culture and tradition-- the central theme of this book.

Welcome everyone and how are you doing, this is Box-office where it's all about Nollywood and Motion Pictures, locally and globally.

Join me today, let's tackle this very sensitive topic as we take a look at some of the most promising Nollywood Actors who could play the role of Okonkwo, if the scenarios were different.

A new Ebube Dike won't be a bad idea after almost 4 decades of the last.

Selection Process for the next Okonkwo:

Now the actors on this list will be judged according to the following parameters:

• Years active
• Most iconic role
• The biggest movies appeared in
• How close is he to the culture and other trivia.
• Why he should be considered
• Factors that could hinder the choice

Note: This list is intended solely for entertainment purposes, as no actual data—whether objective or subjective—was used in the selection process.

With this caveat out of the way, feel free to add the names of any of your faves that were unintentionally omitted, who knows we might even be updating this list, I'm even seeing a series made out of all this.

Who are The Candidates for Okonkwo? let’s meet them:

• Stan Nze
• Chiwetel Ejiofor
• Yul Edochie
• Alex Ekubo
• Uzor Arukwe
• Kenneth Okonkwo
• Chidi Mokeme
• Frederick Leonard
• Jidekene Achufusi AKA Swanky JKA
• Enyinna Nwigwe
• Blossom Chukwujekwu

Note: The names are treated in no order.

Stan Nze

Bio:

Born Stanley Ebuka Nzediegwu on May 15, 1989. He made his acting debut in 2009 with the TV series Private Sector and gained significant attention with his 2013 role in Murder at Prime Suites.

Years Active- 2009- Till date 

Stan had never left our screens since his well-chiseled face and image were splashed on them. This is fifteen years, to be exact.

Most iconic role: 

The remake of the movie Rattlesnake, in which he played the lead role- Ahanna, won him an AMVCA award in 2022 and was also one of his most critically acclaimed outings.

Biggest movies appeared:

• Just Not Married (2016) – Nominated for Best Lead Actor at the Zulu African Film Academy Awards.
• Rattlesnake: The Ahanna Story (2020) – Won Best Actor at the 2022 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards.
• Prophetess (2021) – Featured alongside notable actors Toyin Abraham and Lateef Adedimeji.
• Aki and Pawpaw (2021) – A reboot of the popular Nigerian comedy duo.
• Hey You (2022) – Starred in this romantic drama film.
• Afamefuna: An Nwa Boi Story (2023) – A recent project featuring Jide Kene Achufusi and Segun Arinze.

How close is he to the culture?: 

Stan Nze is a great ambassador of the Igbo culture and way of life, it is always a spectacle watching splash it proudly unequivocally. 

As a model, he has appeared in many Isiagu dubbed apparel.

The first time I watched this actor was in the Mnet series Uno Isi, a family sitcom on African Magic Igbo. If this was a criterion, (which I believe it should), then Stan is worth every penny required to fit him into this iconic role.

He has been very pivotal in keeping the ways of his people alive

The Things Fall Apart novel could be made into a movie franchise like Ian Flemming’s James Bond (007), due to its cultural implications to the Igbo culture and beliefs, Stan for all intent and purposes could be sculpted to stand in seamlessly as the Okonkwo.

Now why should Stan be considered? 

Well, Stan is a well-rounded actor, he is fluent both in Igbo and English with very impressive diction.

For the physical requirements, he is easily counted among the most chiseled and shredded actors in the industry. 

He possesses what it takes to undertake strenuous activities, including wrestling which is one of the riveting moments succinctly captured in the book and the movie.

Factors that could hinder the choice:

The only factors that could affect his chances are other top players ranked on this list.

It could also be said that he is lacking in terms of International exposure, another deficiency others Featured here are suffering from.

Speaking of International exposure, the next act on this list has it in abundance.

Chiwetel Ejiofor

Bio: 

Born on July 10, 1977, in London, Chiwetel Ejiofor is a British actor of Nigerian Igbo descent, known for his versatile roles in film, television, and theater.

Years Active: 1997 till date: 

He was cast by Steven Spielberg in Amistad (1997), marking his film debut, making it 27 years in film and theatre (as at the time of writing this).

Most iconic role: 

He is best known for his role as Solomon Northup in 12 Years a Slave (2013), which earned him an Academy Award nomination for Best Actor.

Biggest movies appeared:

• 12 Years a Slave (2013) – Played Solomon Northup, won a BAFTA Award, and was nominated for an Oscar.
• Kinky Boots (2005) – Nominated for a Golden Globe and British film awards for his role.
• Dirty Pretty Things (2002) – Won Best Actor at the British Independent Film Awards.
• The Martian (2015) – Played a role in this hit sci-fi movie with Matt Damon.
• Amistad (1997) – His breakthrough role, directed by Steven Spielberg.
• Half of a Yellow Sun (2013) – Starred in a film about the Nigerian Civil War with Thandiwe Newton.

How close is he to the culture? 

This is impressionistic if you ask me, remember if Idris who is very far from the culture could be cast to play this role, why wouldn't Chiwetel, a British Igbo be suitable for the Okonkwo role?

Why Chiwetel should be considered: 

Chiwetel is a well-grounded actor whose experience in film and theatre spans 3 decades.

In terms of the physical side of things, watching this actor in the 2008 film Redbelt where he was cast as Mike Terry, a jujitsu champion, revealed his tenacity.

This is one professional experience that makes him the man for the Okonkwo role, I'd daresay.

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

A significant factor that could frustrate Chiwetel's chances from landing this role is his prolonged absence from the Igbo culture, traditions and way of life.

However, I reference Idris once again, like Chiwetel, he is British but still got the role, so why not? 

Chiwetel has also submitted in an interview that his Igbo name opens doors for him.  That again could aid in casting him in this role.

Speaking of names that open doors, the next act on this list has a surname that could elevate him to the top of the pecking order, given its significance to the Things Fall Apart brand.

Yul Edochie

Bio: 

Born on January 7, 1982, in Lagos, Yul Chibuike Daniel Edochie popularly known as Yul Edochie is the son of legendary actor and first actor to play the role of Okonkwo in the Things Fall Apart movie released in 1987.

Years active: 2005 till date: 

He made his movie debut in 2005, making it 19 years in the Nollywood industry as of 2024 when this article was written.

Most iconic role: 

He gained recognition in 2007 with the movie Wind of Glory.

Biggest movies appeared in: 

His filmography is quite extensive, but below is a list of some of the biggest projects he has appeared in.

1. Wind of Glory (2007) – Yul's breakthrough role alongside Genevieve Nnaji and Desmond Elliot.
2. Kiss My Pain (2008) – Co-starred with Mike Ezuruonye and Mercy Johnson.
3. Sarafina (2011) – Featured alongside Rita Dominic.
4. Chioma The Weeping Queen (2014) – Played the role of Prince Chukwuemeka.
5. Royal Maid (2015) – Starred with Eucharia Anunobi.2
6. Moms at War (2018) – Featured alongside Omoni Oboli and Funke Akindele.

How close is he to the culture:

Yul like his father is one of the biggest ambassadors of the Igbo culture. His versatility in understanding the culture, customs, and cosmology of the Igbo people is unparalleled.

Why Yul should be considered: 

Yul is undoubtedly an outstanding actor, one of the biggest in the industry; though he could be described as possessing a diminutive stature, regardless, he is fit and would stand toe to toe in a wrestling bout, with any opponent, case in mind -- Omalinze the Cat.

Being a son of the man who first did it is yet another factor. 

To know what is expected at the auditions, Yul could ask questions and luckily Pete is still around to furnish him with the right answers that would increase his chances of being selected for this role, figuratively speaking.

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

Many skeptics might argue that nepotism is at play if he's cast as the son of the former Okonkwo, prioritizing his Edochie surname over other deserving actors—purely a hypothetical scenario

Fortunately for Yul, his father is also a mentor to many acts in the industry, making him not the only one with a father figure like the next act on this list who like many others has adopted Pete as their father and mentor.

Alexx Ekubo

Bio: 

Born on April 10, 1986, Alexx Ekubo gained fame as the first runner-up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria contest.

Years active: 2005 till date: 

He made his film debut in Sinners in the House (2005), as of 2024, Alex has spent close to 2 decades or precisely 19 years in Nollywood. Phew! What a long time.

Most iconic role:

Weekend Getaway, where he played Andre Dikeh, a critically acclaimed role that won him the award as the Best Supporting Actor at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards.

Movies he has Appeared in:

Here’s a list of six notable movies starring Alexx Ekubo:

1. Weekend Getaway (2012) - Andre Dikeh; Best Supporting Actor at the 2013 Best of Nollywood Awards.
2. In the Cupboard (2012) - Tega; Most Promising Actor at the 2012 Best of Nollywood Awards.
3. Lagos Cougars (2013) - Chigo; Nominated for various awards.
4. The Bling Lagosians (2019) - Himself; Best Actor in a Supporting Role at the 2020 Best of Nollywood Awards.
5. Your Excellency (2019) - Kachi; Nominated for various awards.
6. 72 Hours (2019) -

How close is he to the culture: 

After watching him play alongside Stan Nze in the awe-inspiring movie - Afamefuna, it is safe to say that Alex is as close to the culture as the Okonkwo being referred to in this discourse. As a model, he has stylishly been garbed in many versions of the Isiagu.

Why Alexx should be considered: 

Alexx’s versatility and ability to meander through varying roles and depictions make him the right fit for a role as significant as this.

He is also fit and fab in the event that he has to wrestle Omalinze the cat in the movies.

I've seen the number of irons this dude pumps daily, his abs and well-chiseled physique are a testament to this.

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

Most of Alexx's roles have primarily been the lover-boy type. However, we also need to note that almost every actor here is stereotyped as a lover boy in Nollywood, so Alex is no exception

Though he has spent close to a decade in the industry, many people see him more as a model and socialite than an actor.

Alex is physically built for this role, which is a big plus for him.

Now speaking of being physically built, the next act on this list was taunted for lacking the attributes required to play the role.

Uzor Arukwe:

Bio: 

Uzor Arukwe was born on August 6, 1983, in Imo State, Southeast Nigeria

Years active: 2014 to date 

Arukwe made his Nollywood debut in 2014 with Unspoken Truth.

Most iconic role: 

He gained recognition for his role as Inspector Sam in the 2017 movie Sergeant Tutu.

Biggest movies appeared in:

1. Unspoken Truth (2014) – His debut role.
2. Sergeant Tutu (2017) – Known for his role as Inspector Sam.
3. Smash (2020) – Nominated for Best Actor in a Comedy or Movie at the 2020 African Magic Viewers' Choice Awards.
4. Size 12 (2020) – Nominated for Best Actor in a Comedy or Movie at the 2020 African Magic Viewers' Choice Awards.
5. Yours Regardless (2021) – Nominated for Best Actor at the 2021 Best of Nollywood Awards.
6. A Tribe Called Judah (2023) – Notable recent work.

How close is he to the culture?:

Uzor has never shied away from anything related to Igbo culture. He has portrayed many roles that showcase his affinity for this culture, and in each situation, he has lived through them remarkably.

Why Uzor should be considered: 

In a recent Twitter now X bant, a fan argued that Uzor wasn't cut out for the role, see what the fan who goes by the username @uzo_agu said:

"@uzorarukwe is my guy but he does not have the physical requirements for the role. In the 70s, Pete Edochie was the man because of his physical attributes and thick voice. And it was the British that made the series for Africa o, This time it is a series not for Nigeria sef."

But in a similar fashion of marketing himself like a typical Igbo man, Uzor made this rebuttal:

"I am a man of many talents and changing my voice is the least of my talent, Sugar Rush is a testament to that. Physical requirements can also be achieved. I am a blank canvas that can be painted to fit into any role the character requires."

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

As many fans posited, the "physical requirements" might put a spanner in the works for this actor if he was to be considered for the part. However, Uzor has debunked this calling himself a "blank canvas" in reference to his malleability.

Now speaking of painting on a blank canvas, the next actor cum politician has creatively morphed into many things other than just acting and has evolved with every stroke of the paint.

Kenneth Okonkwo

Bio:

Kenneth Okonkwo is a veteran Nigerian actor, lawyer, and politician. He is best known for his role as Andy Okeke in the movie Living in Bondage. He was born on November 6, 1968

Years active: 

1992 till date 

He made his film debut in 1992 in the movie Living in Bondage. It's 34 years already in 2024 since he made his critically acclaimed appearance in Living in Bondage I & II. 

Though he has been doing more politicking these days, notwithstanding a leopard can never shed its spot.

Most iconic role: 

His debut role as Andy in Living in Bondage (1992), a movie that could be regarded as the motion picture that kickstarted what we know today as Nollywood.

Biggest movies appeared in:

• Living in Bondage (1992): This groundbreaking film is considered one of the most influential movies in Nollywood and established Okonkwo as a leading actor.
• Wives on Strike (2016): This comedy-drama film was a commercial success and featured Okonkwo in a prominent role.
• The British Expert (2019): This action-thriller showcased Okonkwo's versatility as an actor.

How close is he to the culture: 

Kenneth bears the culture and his affinity and closeness are not even up for debate.

Why Kenneth should be considered: 

As one of the founding members of Nollywood, Kenneth debuted in an Igbo Language movie that earned a remake, can you beat that?.

In terms of delivering roles, Kenneth is an outstanding actor, playing Okonkwo would be a natural fit for him.

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

Kenneth is currently the oldest on this list, and while he can be considered very sturdy, age might be a factor when it is time to strut his stuff on the wrestling ground, yet again this is purely speculative.

On the other hand, Idris who got the role is 52 while Kenneth is 56, just four years older. If Kenneth is old for the role so is Idris.

But if 52 is a thing, then the next actor on this list is also riding 52 and still looking strong.

Chidi Mokeme

Bio: 

Born on March 17, 1972, Chidi is an actor and TV presenter from Oba in Anambra State. He gained widespread recognition as the host of the reality show Gulder Ultimate Search.

Years active: 

Early 90s? Till date. 

There's no specific date, but Chidi entered the industry in the early 90s and was part of Nollywood's golden generation that pioneered the revolution we have today. 

Most iconic role: 

His role as Scar in the Netflix series Shanty Town earned him an AMCVA and remains one of Chidi's most critically acclaimed appearances.

Biggest movies appeared in:

1. Shanty Town (2023) – Nominated for Best Actor in a Drama, Movie, or TV Series at the 2023 Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Awards.
2. The Therapist (2021) – Played the role of Rotimi Bankole.
3. 76 (2016) – Portrayed Major Gomos in this historical drama.
4. Mr & Mrs: Chapter Two (2017) – Featured as Kobi.
5. Akachi (2020) – Played Gozie in this Nollywood drama.
6. Abuja Connection (2003) – One of his earlier well-known roles.

How close is he to the culture: 

Chidi is a polyglot, he is fluent in Yoruba, and Hausa as well as his native Igbo Language. He grew up in Lagos but has never been far from his roots.

Why Chidi should be considered:

His handling of the reality TV program Gulder Ultimate Search makes him a warrior, as anchor he set the bar so high. To date, there's never been a host that has beat his record.

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

If Being 52 was a factor, then it could become an obstacle, but Idris is 52 so??

However, if age were a factor (which it isn't), having a doppelganger to play the part could be advantageous, making it easier for the next actor on this list who happens to be a tad younger.

Frederick Leonard

Bio: 

Born Frederick Nnaemeka Leonard on May 1, 1976.

Years active: 

2001 till date. Frederick Leonard began his acting career in 2001, took a hiatus to complete his studies, and made an impressive comeback in 2008. 

Most iconic role:

After a break, he returned to the industry in 2008 and played the lead in the movie Indian Doctor, a role that cemented him as one of the best to ever do it

Biggest movies appeared in:

Here are the releases featuring Frederick Leonard:

1. Indian Doctor – (2008)
2. Disclosure – 2021
3. Void – 2019
4. Desperate Son – (Year not readily available)
5. Accidental Bride – 2016
6. Discontent – (Year not readily available)

How close is he to the culture: 

The self-styled Film Lord is so connected to his roots that he ensures to infuse at least one Igbo adage or saying in his lines. He also makes it a point to charm his fans (especially the ladies—sorry, Peggy!) by wearing traditional Isiagu outfits both in his movies and in real life

That's how Okonkwo this dude can be.

Why Frederick should be considered: 

Physically, Frederick is quite a strong fit for the role. 

His creative finesse and ability to deliver his roles to the amazement of his fans and critics places him at the top as one of the best. 

Not forgetting his elegant grace and poise, Igbo steeze, handsome looks, damn! I'm seeing Okonkwo already, an Ebube Dike in the making if you ask me.

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

Frederick is not known to engage in movies where his physical strengths and endurance can be tested.

Like many others on this list, he typically plays the lover-boy or prince, and sometimes a young bachelor or budding CEO of a company.

Does this limit him or make him unsuitable for other roles? Well, this is subjective, as I mentioned earlier.

Not being a man who plays the action, could take this action role away from him, but the next act on this list is well versed in portraying action type roles where his physicals have been duly tested.

Jidekene Achufusi AKA Swanky JKA

Bio: 

Born Jideofor Kenechukwu Achufusi on October 17, 1991. He is a model and actor.

Years active: 

2015 to date.

Most iconic role: 

His breakthrough role came in 2019 when he portrayed the charismatic Nnamdi Okeke in the remake of the movie Living in Bondage: Breaking Free.

Biggest movies appeared in:

1. Living in Bondage: Breaking Free (2019) – Nnamdi Okeke his Breakthrough role
2. Kambili: The Whole 30 Yards (2020) – Chidi
3. Lionheart (2018) – Reporter
4. Dwindle (2021) – Chinedu
5. Money Miss Road (2022) – Joe
6. Brotherhood (2022) – Simon
7. A Tribe Called Judah (2023)- Emeka

Why he should be considered:

Regarding the physical requirements, which seem to be the case in all the arguments put forward by fans, Swanky is all in and could hold his own in a fitness contest.

He is also a very versatile actor, with impeccable role delivery and a strong ability to improvise.

Factors that could hinder the choice: 

Jidekene is still relatively underrated, like he is one of the most underrated acts in the game. 

The first time I heard about this actor was in Funke Akindele’s 2023 movie A Tribe Called Judah.

Speaking of being underrated, the next act on this list is another amazing yet underrated actor to ever grace our screens.

Enyinna Nwigwe

Bio: 

Chief Enyinna Nwigwe was born on September 18, 1982, in Ngor Okpala, Imo State Southeast Nigeria.

Years active: 

2004 till date Eyinna started his career as a print and runway model before transitioning to acting and then making his Film Debut.

His first feature film was Wheel of Change in 2004, making it exactly 20 years he made his entrance into in Nollywood.

Most iconic role:

Chief Enyinna Nwigwe's breakout role is widely considered to be Nonso in Kemi Adetiba's romcom-- The Wedding Party 2.

This film significantly raised his profile in the Nigerian film industry and showcased his acting talent to a broader audience.

Biggest movies appeared in: 

1. Tamuno in Black November (2012) alongside notable actors such as Kim Basinger and Vivica A. Fox.
2. Nonso in The Wedding Party 2 (2017), a sequel to the popular Nigerian romantic comedy.
3. Obinna Omego in Living in Bondage: Breaking Free (2019), a remake of the classic Nollywood film.
4. Ibrahim Babangida in the biopic Badamasi (2020).
5. Nura Yusuf in Eagle Wings (2021), Nigeria's first military-based film.

How close is he to the culture: 

Being a model, the dude has been one of the ambassadors of the culture, and then he is Chief Eyinna Nwigwe, a titled man.

Why Eyinna should be considered: 

Enyinna has appeared in movies like Eagle Wings (Nigeria's first military film), and Black November, a movie shot outside Nigeria that had stars like Kim Basinger on its role call of international casts.

Enyinna is a well-rounded and highly exposed actor who could stand toe to toe to any of your greats, Idris Elba inclusive.

Factors that could hinder the choice:

As I mentioned earlier, Enyinna is one of the most underrated actors. Despite his impressive filmography, he could be unintentionally overlooked by producers.

Blossom Chukwujekwu

Bio: 

Born Chukwudi Echezona Chukwujekwu on November 4, 1983 in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. He is a model and an actor.

Years active: 

2009 to date He made his Professional Debut in the 2009 soap opera--- Portrait of Passion.

Most iconic role: 

His Breakout Role was in Flower Girl (2013), which achieved significant success in Nigeria, Ghana, and internationally.

Biggest movies appeared in:

• Finding Mercy (2013)
• Knocking on Heaven's Door (2014) - Won Africa Magic Viewers' Choice Award for Best Supporting Actor in 2015.
• The Visit (2015)
• Ghana Must Go (2016)
• Òlòtūré (2020)
• Omo Ghetto: The Saga (2021)
• JAPA (2024)

How close is he to the culture: 

Blossom has appeared in quite a good number of both Igbo Language and themed projects.

Why Blossom should be considered:

Versatility, along with being physically built for this role, remains one of the most talked-about requirements by fans and pundits who have made comments since the announcement of the Things Fall Apart movie remake.

Luckily for Blossom, if these criteria were heavily regarded, then he sure would make the cut.

Factors that could hinder the choice:

Blossom is known to play both romance and Action Movies, however, his filmography is littered with mostly romance-themed and rom-com flicks.

Idris himself has also been cast in such movies, and he bagged the iconic Okonkwo role at the end of the day, so if he can why not Blossom?

Why not Stan, Chidi, Kenneth, Frederick, and Why not other special mentions like --KOK,  Zubby Michaels,  Sambasa Nzeribe,  IK Ogbonna, OC Ukeje,  Onny Michaels, Gideon Okeke and so many others this list cannot accommodate.

The Real Question:

We are all being so critical about this role, but many of us have failed to answer this question.

Why did it take Nollywood all this time to realise we need to start making movies out of our many classic proses that have stayed dormant in our libraries?

Books like Arrows of God, The Concubine by Elechi Amadi, Forest of A Thousand Daemons by Daniel O. Fagunwa and so many amazing books deserve to be made into full movies like we normally see in Hollywood.

So movie producers what are y'all waiting for? Do we need to have Kevin Hart or Will Smith take up another iconic role?

Thanks for reading and if by any means you feel any of your faves were skipped, feel free to add such names in the comments section.

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Till next time ciao!