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Reported by Amos Dachung – Sele Media Africa Reporter
September 7, 2025

“What God Has Done Through ‘To Kill A Monkey’ Is Overwhelming” — Michael Ejoor Reflects on Breakout Role

Lagos, Nigeria – Nigerian actor Michael O. Ejoor has expressed profound gratitude for his role in the Netflix crime thriller To Kill A Monkey, describing the experience as both humbling and spiritually significant. Portraying Inspector Onome, a morally conflicted police officer, Ejoor’s performance has garnered critical acclaim and opened new avenues in his acting career.

“What God has done through To Kill A Monkey is overwhelming,” Ejoor shared in a recent interview. “This role challenged me deeply, and the response has been beyond anything I imagined.”

A Role That Mirrors Reality

Ejoor’s character, Inspector Onome, navigates the murky waters of law enforcement entangled with corruption and self-preservation. The actor found the role particularly resonant, noting that it shed light on systemic issues within institutions of power.
⁠“Playing Onome definitely opened my eyes,” Ejoor explained. “We live in a third-world country, and the reality is that many systems are broken. That includes law enforcement. Sometimes, the very people who swore to protect you are swayed by money or power.” [1]

He further reflected on the complexities of human behavior, emphasizing that desperation often drives individuals to compromise their morals.

Collaborating with Industry Veterans

Working alongside seasoned actress Bimbo Akintola was a highlight for Ejoor. He recounted their immediate camaraderie and the invaluable guidance she provided throughout the filming process.

⁠“She’s generous with her energy and advice,” Ejoor said. “She guided me through scenes, complimented me after takes, and even picked up the phone the next day to say, ‘Baby, you killed it.’ That level of kindness and encouragement from a legend like her? It lifts you.” [1]

Under the Direction of Kemi Adetiba

Director Kemi Adetiba’s approach to storytelling left a lasting impression on Ejoor. He praised her for treating every role with equal importance and for her unique method of directing actors.

⁠“Kemi is exceptional,” he noted. “She didn’t tell you how to act. She told you how to feel. And that made all the difference.” [1]

Adetiba’s emphasis on emotional authenticity allowed Ejoor to delve deeper into his character, resulting in a performance that resonated with audiences.

A Testament to Nollywood’s Evolution

To Kill A Monkey has been lauded for its gripping narrative, compelling performances, and high production values. The series delves into the life of Efemini, a desperate programmer who becomes entangled in cybercrime, leading to a cascade of moral compromises. [2]

Ejoor’s portrayal of Inspector Onome adds depth to the series, highlighting the internal struggles faced by individuals within flawed systems. His performance stands as a testament to the growing sophistication and global appeal of Nollywood productions.

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Citations:
1.⁠ ⁠Nollywire: nollywire.com/onome-vs-onome-michael-o-ejoor-on-the-irony-of-playing-his-namesake-in-to-kill-a-monkey/?utm_source=chatgpt.com
2.⁠ ⁠Netflix: www.netflix.com/title/81687484?utm_source=chatgpt.com