The Story⚡
A routine traffic stop. A Nollywood producer behind the wheel. A severed head in the trunk.
That’s the premise of Headless, the 2024 AFRIFF opener starring Gideon Okeke as the producer caught in a deadly web. Two years later, the thriller is ready to hit Nigerian cinemas.
Tell Me More
Headless, directed and produced by Michael Ndiomu, debuted as the opening film at the 2024 Africa International Film Festival (AFRIFF) in Lagos. The premiere in November 2024 drew considerable attention for its premise and execution, with attendees noting the strong turnout and positive response on the night.
The story centres on a film producer whose arrest uncovers broader networks linking the entertainment sector to political and criminal elements. The cast includes Gideon Okeke, Uzoamaka Aniunoh (playing Inspector Jane), Baaj Adebule, Gbubemi Ejeye, Ruby Okezie, alongside Femi Branch and Segun Arinze.
After the festival screening, the film entered a period common to many independent Nigerian productions: securing a distributor for theatrical release. In February 2026, FilmOne Entertainment announced a partnership with producer Michael W. Ndiomu of Maturion Films to handle nationwide distribution. The agreement brings Headless to cinemas across multiple cities in Nigeria.
Tangent
Several other titles that generated equal or greater conversation at recent AFRIFF editions still have no confirmed theatrical or streaming release dates, highlighting the common distribution challenges faced by festival standouts. Here are titles audiences are keenly waiting for news on their distribution debut.
Phoenix Fury
Directed by Ifeoma N. Chukwuogo, the film follows two women bound by shared trauma as they cross Nigeria and Ghana in pursuit of revenge against a mutual tormentor. The film dominated AFRIFF 2024 awards, taking Best Feature Film and Best Director, with widespread praise marking it as the festival’s most celebrated entry.
Out of Breath
Directed by Obi Emelonye, is a dramatic feature told entirely in Igbo, exploring intense personal and cultural conflicts. As the official closing film at AFRIFF, Emelonye described the premiere as a profound honour, noting the warm audience reception that left him deeply grateful.
To Adaego With Love
The directorial debut of Nwamaka Priscilia Chikezie, is a post-Nigerian Civil War romantic drama set in 1975, tracing the relationship between a soldier and a schoolteacher amid lingering societal scars. Featuring Chisom Agoawuike, Adam Garba, Chioma Akpotha, Bob-Manuel Udokwu, and the late Onyeka Onwenu, it won Best Feature Film at AFRIFF 2025, earning acclaim for its emotional depth and historical sensitivity.
Agemo
Directed by Moshood Abiola Obatula (Director Mosh), is a mystery-horror centred on a sinister annual tradition in the town of Itolo that claims young lives. Starring Moji Afolayan Olayiwola, Jide Kosoko, and others, the film drew attention at AFRIFF and subsequent festivals for its unflinching examination of harmful cultural practices.
I Do Not Come to You by Chance
Directed by Ishaya Bako, adapts Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s novel about a young graduate drawn into 419 scamming under family pressure. The film earned audience recognition in its festival run for its sharp commentary on economic desperation.
This is Lagos
Directed by Kenneth Gyang, the title is a dark comedy tracing a young man’s non-linear survival struggles in the city. It resonated at the festival as a vivid, affectionate yet unflinching portrait of Lagos life.
Mojisola
Directed by Kenneth Gyang, is a paranormal coming-of-age love story set in Jos involving spirit sisters. Gyang called it a modern bedtime story, with its dreamy atmosphere and supernatural elements sparking notable discussion.
Fractured
Directed by Kayode Kasum, is a psychological thriller about a high-profile CEO (Atlanta Bridget Johnson) whose reality fractures after a violent home invasion, raising questions of memory and betrayal. Supported by Shaffy Bello, Daniel Etim Effiong, and others, it made a strong impression as an official selection for its tense exploration of trauma.
Black Harvest
Directed by James Amuta, is a neo-noir drama involving mysterious kidnappings and moral ambiguity, starring Kelechi Udegbe, Elvina Ibru, and Gregory Ojefua. It premiered at earlier festivals including AFRIFF screenings, noted for its gritty take on crime.
The Boy Who Gave
Directed by Allison Precious Emmanuel, portrays the relentless hardships of a destitute yet hardworking man, framed with documentary elements. It competed at AFRIFF 2025 with multiple nominations, drawing attention for its raw depiction of poverty and perseverance.
Aljana
Directed by Grace Yakubu, features Richard Bamgbaiye and Nadia Dutch in key roles within a narrative blending cultural and personal themes. Its AFRIFF screening highlighted strong performances that contributed to positive festival conversations.
The Good Gift
Directed by Kayode Kasum and executive produced by Williams Uchemba, centres on the enduring bond between a father and daughter amid challenges. The faith-influenced drama premiered at AFRIFF 2025, earning appreciation for its heartfelt storytelling.
Njem
Directed by Uche Chukwu, examines ambition, sacrifice, and the constraints of poverty through characters including Chimezie Imo and Goodness Emmanuel. As an official selection at AFRIFF 2025, it sparked dialogue on social mobility and suffering.
Three Tramps and the Law
Directed by Yibo Koko, follows four strangers in Port Harcourt whose paths cross in an entertaining yet meaningful comedy-drama, featuring Ada Ameh, Ali Baba, and Tamara Eteimo. Its AFRIFF 2025 screening was celebrated for blending humour with deeper commentary.
In Summary
Headless combines a focused investigation narrative with practical action sequences and a committed ensemble cast, offering a grounded perspective on themes that resonate beyond the screen. It arrives in cinemas nationwide on March 13, 2026, following a well-received opening at AFRIFF 2024.
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