By Ayo Onikoyi
The star character in the Africa Magic original 39-episode fantasy drama titled Uriri, Seun Ajayi has opened up on his exploits in the series, revealing the challenges he faced and why he was chosen for the massive role despite his slight frame.
Uriri tells the story of a legendary warrior, Ogaga, who must confront his destiny and the darkness within while being haunted by the source of his strength. In his quest, a young maiden’s (Serome) fate becomes intertwined with his, making for a tale that oscillates between love, madness, and life.
The series features Seun Ajayi, Frank Konwea, Osarehia Oronsaye, Bobby Ekpe, and more, with Xavier Ighorodje as showrunner and executive producer.
He speaks with Potpourri of his role, challenges, plot of the film and more. EXCERPTS:
What was the inspiration behind Uriri, was it influenced by Hollywood, or did it stem from local history and culture?
That’s a great question. To be honest, the motivation behind Uriri would be best answered by the show’s creator, Xavier Ighorode. I came into the project just before filming began, so my role was centered around bringing Ogaga to life rather than shaping the story itself.
Uriri translates to power in English and is set in the 15th or 16th century (though I’d have to confirm the exact time frame). It’s a period drama deeply rooted in Urhobo history, revolving around a fearless warrior named Ogaga. He fought many battles for his people and was guided by the voices of his forefathers, most notably, the god Aziza, the spirit of the wind.
From my discussions with Xavier, I learned that the story was inspired by historical accounts from the South-South region of Nigeria. It also touches on mental health themes, particularly schizophrenia, which adds an intriguing psychological layer to the narrative.
Given that the story is deeply rooted in Urhobo culture, how did you prepare for the role, from the perspectives of language and culture of the Urhobos?
One of the biggest challenges was mastering the tonality of the Urhobo language. The meaning of words can change drastically depending on pronunciation, so getting it right was crucial. We had a dedicated language coach who worked with us extensively, both before and during filming. She ensured that our pronunciations were accurate and culturally authentic.
Beyond language, wardrobe and costume design played a significant role in helping us embody the characters. The costume team was meticulous about every detail, from the fabrics to the historical significance of each piece. That level of immersion made a huge difference in my performance.
Additionally, I conducted my own research to better understand the historical and cultural context. All these elements combined to help me fully inhabit the character of Ogaga.
Speaking of Ogaga’s strength and the fact that his name in Urhobo symbolizes power, what do you think made the creators choose you for this role despite your slight frame?
That’s a fantastic question. I actually wondered the same thing when I was cast. When I arrived on set and saw the other actors, some of whom were much bigger than me, I was initially surprised. But Xavier explained his reasoning to me: If Ogaga were physically massive, people wouldn’t question where his strength came from. His power isn’t just about physical size, it comes from the spirits that possess him in battle. His strength is supernatural, which makes him even more terrifying.
A good analogy is Samson from the Bible. If Samson had been visibly muscular, people wouldn’t have questioned his strength. But his power came from a divine source, which is what made him so intriguing. Similarly, Ogaga’s strength isn’t about brute force; it’s about something greater, something beyond human comprehension.
Now, what can viewers expect from your portrayal of Ogaga, in terms of authenticity and uniqueness of your craft?
Absolutely. Ogaga is unlike any role I’ve played before. He’s a deeply layered character;-stoic, mysterious, and intense. He has an almost supernatural aura, influenced by the spirits that guide him. Over time, you see him transform into something almost otherworldly, straddling the line between man and beast.
There’s a raw, animalistic side to Ogaga, particularly when he enters battle. He becomes a berserker, someone who fights with uncontrollable fury. His reputation alone instills fear in his enemies. That level of physicality and psychological complexity was a challenge, but it was also one of the most rewarding aspects of playing this character.
About Seun Ajayi
Seun Ajayi is a prominent figure in Nollywood, known for his versatile acting skills and captivating performances. With a career spanning both television and film, he has established himself as a sought-after talent in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Ajayi gained widespread recognition for his role as Dayo in the popular TV series “Hustle,” where his portrayal of a struggling young man resonated with audiences. His ability to embody diverse characters, from the comedic to the dramatic, has earned him critical acclaim and a dedicated fan base.
Some of his notable film credits include “Ojukokoro: Greed,” “God Calling,” “The Ghost and the House of Truth,” and “93 Days.” In these films, Ajayi has showcased his range as an actor, delivering memorable performances that have solidified his place in Nollywood.
Ajayi’s talent has not gone unnoticed, as he has received nominations for the Best Actor categories on prestigious awards such as the Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA) and the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards (AMVCA). His contributions to Nollywood have made him a respected and influential figure in the industry.
The post Why I was chosen to play Ogaga, powerful, supernatural Urhobo warrior regardless of size – Seun Ajayi appeared first on Vanguard News.
