Voodoos exist in Africa And They Work— Actress Iyabo Ojo insist

Nigerian actress Iyabo Ojo has defended Nollywood’s frequent use of traditional beliefs, spirituality, and exaggerated visual effects, insisting that African filmmakers are merely telling authentic stories rooted in the continent’s culture and realities.

Speaking during a conversation with British-Nigerian radio presenter Remi Burgz, the actress addressed criticisms often directed at Nollywood productions over their supernatural themes and sometimes unconventional special effects.

According to Ojo, African storytelling is deeply connected to local traditions, folklore, and spiritual beliefs, making such elements impossible to separate from many narratives produced within the Nigerian film industry.

“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 voodoos in Africa, and they work,” she said.

The actress maintained that filmmakers should not feel pressured to abandon cultural realities simply to align with Western standards of storytelling. She argued that Nollywood’s identity lies in its ability to portray African experiences in ways that resonate with local audiences while also intriguing viewers across the world.

Ojo further noted that although some special effects used in Nollywood films are often mocked online for appearing dramatic or unrealistic, they still represent the creativity, imagination, and resilience of Nigerian storytellers working with limited resources.

She added that the industry’s willingness to embrace bold and unconventional narratives has helped project African stories to global audiences and contributed to Nollywood’s growing international recognition.

For many viewers across Africa, themes involving spirituality, ancestral beliefs, and folklore are not merely fictional concepts but reflections of everyday experiences and deeply held cultural traditions.