Nollywood actress Iyabo Ojo has sparked widespread discussion after openly addressing the role of black magic in African cinema. In a recent interview with BBC 1Xtra, the filmmaker defended the use of voodoo and supernatural elements in her latest movie, The Return of Arinzo, asserting that such practices are real and integral to African culture.
Defending African Storytelling
During the interview, Ojo was asked about critics who dismiss Nollywood films due to their special effects and supernatural themes. She responded emphatically, stating that African cinema must remain authentic to its roots. “Well, it's Africa, and we have to tell our story the way it is, no matter how much we want to westernise it or modernise it. There are voodoo in Africa, and they work. So whether you like it or not or accept it, it's what we call Ayetta,” she explained.
Ojo emphasised that filmmakers cannot ignore cultural realities, noting that showcasing elements like voodoo reflects the imagination and creativity of Nigerians. “Sometimes it's comical, but sometimes we're being dead serious. This is what it could be,” she added.
Box Office Success
The Return of Arinzo has been a massive hit at the box office. According to distributor FilmOne Entertainment, the film has grossed N311.5 million and remained the number one film for four consecutive weekends. In an appreciation message, FilmOne wrote, “The Return of Arinzo grosses 311.5 Million and counting, The Return of Arinzo maintains its spot as the number one film for four consecutive weekends. Thank you, West Africa, for showing up and showing out. Your love is taking this film higher and higher!”
Iyabo Ojo, currently outside the country, shared a video featuring actress Mercy Aigbe and her daughter Priscilla, expressing gratitude and aiming for the film to reach half a billion naira. “Guys let's vote! Which fanbase will take The Return of Arinzo to 500M in West Africa,” she captioned the post.
Record-Breaking Opening Weekend
Earlier, on April 6, 2026, the film set records in cinemas less than a week after its release. Iyabo revealed that The Return of Arinzo grossed N104.8 million in its opening weekend, making it the highest-grossing movie of the Easter weekend at the Nigerian box office. It also broke multiple records, including the biggest Easter opening and the second-highest opening weekend performance for 2026.
Public Reactions
The interview drew mixed reactions online. User otimabuse commented, “We love Nollywood.” Ifakingfell said, “We love the effects, when they played in Black Panther it works across cinema.” Ella_cr1 questioned, “Are we asking Indians these questions? Just saying.” Alexx.is.king added, “Correlation in the mud.”
Iyabo Ojo and Toyin Abraham
In related news, Iyabo Ojo and Toyin Abraham dismissed viral speculations of a feud following drama at the premiere of The Return of Arinzo. Abraham showed support for Ojo, and Ojo expressed gratitude, referring to Abraham as her sister.
