The cast of ‘Say Who Die’ brings together a dynamic mix of established and emerging talents: Oiza Abu, Meyi Abu, Abounce Fawole, Evaezi Nimyel, Baaj Adebule, Eve Bankong, Folaremi Agunbiade, Eva Ibiam, Riyo David, Dipsen, Joseph Onoja, Toju Peter, Princess Salaudeen, Emeka Golden, Lawrence Chu, Okereke Ifunaya Juliana, Obadina Morakinyo, Chris Biyibi, Tony Tetuila, Mike Afolarin, and Chukwubueze Samuel.
Directed by Paul Utomi, this drama runs for 1 hour and 34 minutes and is available for streaming on Prime Video.
A recent 2024 report highlights a troubling reality: hundreds of Nigerians are currently incarcerated in foreign jails, often tied to drug-related offenses. Nigeria’s growing role as a hub in the transnational drug trade, especially as a transit point for substances like cocaine, has led to increased scrutiny. The ripple effect is evident in Europe, where cocaine consumption is reportedly on the rise due to these supply chains (United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 2023).
This social backdrop connects with Nigeria’s “Japa” wave—a growing trend among young people urgently seeking opportunities, education, or better futures overseas. For many, including students eyeing studies abroad, desperation can make risky paths appear more appealing, sometimes with unintended consequences.
The Storyline: Sisters, Secrets, and Unintended Consequences
‘Say Who Die’ navigates these complex realities through the intertwined lives of twin sisters Omon Igahlo (Meyi Abu) and Odion Igahlo (Oiza Abu). Omon, in a romantic relationship with Dade (Folaremi Agunbiade), is preparing to move to Liverpool to advance her education. While Dade harbours hopes of following her, Omon is realistic—believing distance spells the end for their affair. “Long-distance relationships have a way of dying out,” she explains.
In response, Dade seeks a way to cement their union. He’s introduced to a mystical potion, which is said to bind lovers for life—provided both drink from the same cup. Meanwhile, Omon’s twin, Odion—often seen as the family’s “black sheep”—gets entangled with Jaja (Baaj Adebule) over outstanding debts.
As Omon’s departure approaches, the family—led by parents Innocent (Abounce Fawole) and Martha (Evaezi Nimyel)—throws a farewell party. Tensions rise when Innocent’s girlfriend, Rolake (Eve Bankong), unexpectedly shows up, leading to a cascade of confrontations and rash decisions.
Disaster unfolds at the party. Drinks laced with both laxatives and a love potion find their way into the hands of unsuspecting guests. Chaos peaks when a thug bursts in to collect on Odion’s debts, and someone ends up wheeled out in a body bag. The film’s pivotal turning point plays out here, mixing drama, mystery, and dark comedy.
Performance and Production: Ambition Meets Limitations
While ‘Say Who Die’ boasts a strong lineup of actors—especially breakout performances from Oyiza and Meyi Abu—many viewers and critics have noted that solid acting is undermined by problematic execution. The film, reminiscent of the British comedy ‘Death at a Funeral,’ attempts a similarly tangled plot but falls short in delivering laughter or a cohesive narrative.
However, the movie does succeed in shining a light on the shadowy operations of drug traffickers in Nigeria—and how calamity can erupt when greed, desperation, and criminal networks collide. The plot thickens when Odion, mistaken for her sister, is coerced by a drug syndicate into extracting ingested cocaine from her dead twin’s body—a harrowing storyline echoing real-life accounts reported by agencies like the NDLEA (Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency).
Tension rises as characters reckon with suspicion and guilt: Dade fears the love potion he used might have been poison; their mother, Martha, agonizes over whether her laxative played a fatal role. Meanwhile, Rolake loops herself into the drama, convinced she was the intended victim.
Plot Holes & Pacing: Where the Film Misses the Mark
Despite its thematic relevance and strong cast, ‘Say Who Die’ struggles under the weight of its own story. Critiques from Nollywood fans and industry experts alike point out often glaring plot inconsistencies and questionable production choices. How can Rolake suffer poisoning from a drink that leaves Dade unaffected? How is Omon buried mere hours after her death while investigations are still underway? These lapses break narrative immersion and challenge audience patience.
Nollywood is no stranger to plot twists, but as multiple reviewers on X (formerly Twitter) and YouTube commentary channels have noted, “twists without solid grounding hurt rather than help a story” (see local discussions @wahaala2).
That said, those willing to overlook the obvious flaws may still find value in the film’s energy, stellar performances, and timely exploration of issues facing young Nigerians—especially regarding migration, drug trafficking, and the consequences of desperate choices.
Nollywood Context and Regional Relevance
‘Say Who Die’ joins a growing catalogue of Nollywood works venturing into contemporary societal challenges—much like recent releases that tackle migration, youth unemployment, and organized crime. While the execution here has drawn mixed feedback, the film’s attempt to capture the challenges faced by Nigerian youth is notable, especially as West Africans remain among the most mobile populations on the continent (UNICEF, 2023).
Film critic Simisola Bamidele, speaking to NowaHalaZone, highlights: “The urgency and anxiety of the ‘Japa’ generation—young people desperate to escape Nigeria’s economic crunch—resonates in every scene. But for Nollywood to truly lead global conversations, we must pair strong storytelling with credible, tight production values.”
Final Thoughts: Watch or Skip?
‘Say Who Die’ is best viewed as a conversation starter—a drama that isn’t perfect, but spotlights real-life issues in a way that can get people talking. If you don’t mind some over-the-top twists and a few narrative gaps, you’ll find moments of suspense and laughter to enjoy. If you’re after seamless storytelling and realism, this may leave you wanting.
What are your thoughts on Nollywood’s approach to tackling social issues like drug trafficking and youth migration? Do you think our stories mirror real Nigerian life, or do we need more authenticity? Share your experiences, join the debate, and let us know if you’ve watched ‘Say Who Die.’
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