Three Nigerian film industry personalities set sights on parliamentary seats in the 2027 elections

n n

By Benjamin Njoku

n

Call it another ‘Battle of Musanga’, the 1996 Nollywood epic that depicted clashes between indigenous kingdoms and early European colonizers east of the Niger Delta. This time, the battle won’t play out on screen. It’s moving to the political arena.

n

Three seasoned Nollywood figures have entered the race ahead of the 2027 National Assembly elections. They are filmmaker Fidelis Duker, actor Emeka Ike, and award-winning director/producer Dickson Iroegbu.

n

The contest is heating up. Notably, all three candidates are contesting on the platform of the National Democratic Congress ,NDC. They have purchased and submitted their expression of interest forms, scaled party screenings, and are now preparing to face established political heavyweights in their respective constituencies. With decades of public recognition and influence, the veterans are bringing star power to 2027. It could be one of the most watched entertainment-to-politics shifts in the next election cycle.

n

Fidelis Duker eyes Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South seat

n

Duker is contesting for the House of Representatives under the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC) to represent Akpabuyo/Bakassi/Calabar South Federal Constituency in Cross River State.

n

His entry adds global exposure and professional pedigree to the race. For over 30 years, he has been a leading figure in Africa’s creative economy. He founded the Abuja International Film Festival, West Africa’s longest-running film festival, and serves as Regional Secretary General for the Federation of Pan African Filmmakers (FEPACI). He has represented Nigeria at Cannes and driven industry dialogues across Europe and Africa, building a network in international relations and resource mobilization. His legislative plan includes tech-driven youth development, bills to attract FDI to the constituency’s coastal assets, and strict transparency in constituency project execution.

n

Dickson Iroegbu targets Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala

n

Iroegbu, who began in Nollywood as a continuity lead and screenwriter before moving into directing and production, is vying for Aboh Mbaise/Ngor Okpala Federal Constituency in Imo State at the Green Chamber. He moved from PDP to ADC and now contests under NDC. He reaffirmed his readiness to serve with “sincerity, dedication, and purposeful leadership.” His goal, he said, is stronger representation, faster development, and a more effective voice for his people at the national level. With prior political experience, observers believe he could succeed where fellow Imo veteran Kanayo O. Kanayo’s earlier bid fell short.

n

Emeka Ike returns for Bwari/AMAC

n

Emeka Ike is making a comeback after his 2019 House of Reps attempt. The actor is now seeking to represent Bwari/AMAC Federal Constituency in Abuja. He said his decision is driven by a desire to build a more responsive political system that delivers results to citizens.

n

“I am running for the Federal House of Representatives under the Bwari federal constituency in Abuja. We want to make a statement,” Ike said.

n

“If I have made Nigerians happy through entertainment, let us see how we can bring governance closer to the people.” He pledged to push for stronger governance and faster delivery of democratic dividends.

n

With Duker, Iroegbu, and Ike in the race, the 2027 NASS elections are set for a high-profile crossover between Nollywood influence and grassroots politics.

n n