Nigerian filmmaker, ‘Chukwu Martin, credited with Mr Gbenga’s Hard Drive and We Are Not Men Anymore is following up his social-conscious creative expression with the release of Oga Mike. Written, directed, and produced by Martin, Oga Mike follows the story of the titular character; a mascot performer who struggles and hustles to provide for his family under the harsh economic state of the country.
The short play stars Ikechukwu Iwebenua (Masquerades of Aniedo), Temitope Agoro, Chris Ikechi Anyanya (Refuge), Kelvin Callistus, Oluseun Oyetayo, amongst others. Crew members include Suara Olayinka, cinematographer, Peter Nwanguma, the editor, and‘Tinuola Nwachukwu, production designer. Additionally, the short play is produced in collaboration with Sweet Potato Films & Atewo Media, with Imoh Eboh serving as Executive Producer.
Oga Mike had its first public screening in Morocco at the Bridge’s & UM6P Talent LinkUp Networking Event on May 7, 2024, and will have more select screenings nationwide and beyond. Due to budgetary constraints and the stubborn attempt of the filmmakers to tell a story at “all cost” the short play was shot in a day in Ibadan. With the reception the film had hitherto received, the cast and crew members are proud of every effort put into making the film.
As the filmmakers prepare for a public release of the short play, they look forward to how audiences respond to the story, its characters, and other elements.
Director’s statement
It is 2024, Nigeria is still in a terrible place, and Nigerians are suffering for it in their little corners. Oga Mike is one of such people, an ordinary Nigerian citizen. He’s a man who doesn’t have control over the situation around him. Despite the turmoil around him, he can do nothing about it. Like many Nigerians, Oga Mike is optimistic and believes that “one day e go better”.
Oga Mike is a mascot performer who has chosen to be a good father and husband and hustle hard to provide for his family. But, the important question is this: who cares about the man behind the mascot? In this short play, however briefly, I want the audience to feel what life can be for the next man. This short play is different because it’s a bolder attempt at experimenting with certain theatrical & human elements (like the chorus) which will be more prevalent in my works. I want to tell more stories about “ordinary” people. I want to tell a story of people struggling with issues beyond them.
Looking foward to see this!