By Sharon Akuboh
Lovers of theatre and drama are in for a treat this holiday season, as the much anticipated play ‘Ahebi: The Woman King is set for the stage in December. Precisely December 5th, 2026.
A production of Mooentertainment, the drama is a fascinating tale of power, love and resilience which shows the transient nature of power.
The story revolves around Ahebi, a woman who rose from obscurity and tribulations to become a Warrant Chief and later a Woman King in colonial Nigeria.
She lived an extraordinary life, rising to prominence at a time when women did not play prominent roles in society.
Written by Dr Ikechukwu Erojikwe and Chinonso Moses Udeh, ‘Ahebi’ traces the fascinating life story of a woman named Ahebi Ugbabe whose life trajectory reads like a blockbuster movie script.
She was initially married to a deity, escaped servitude, became a trader in Igala, later a mistress, learnt languages and became a British interpreter. She later became headman and made a Warrant Chief by the British, finally accumulating enough power to become Eze of Enugu-Ezike. She was the only female King in colonial Nigeria.
On the inspiration for the play, which stars veteran Nollywood actress Patience Ozokwo and other thespians, Erojikwe, who is also the director of the drama, noted:
“Most of our stories are lost in time. The story of Ahebi Ugbabe has been begging to be told because it stands out as a remarkable story that needs national and global viewing. We have been researching this story since 2017.”
He added that the team had put in a lot of efforts in the production so the audience could witness an enthralling, magical performance laced with music, spectacle and alluring storytelling.
To him, the drama was his production company’s efforts in becoming part of history by telling stories which even spirits dare to tell. ‘We want to give our audience an unforgettable experience. We want this first outing by MOOENTERTAINMENT to be lavishly outstanding, enthralling magic. ” the theatre director and playwright said.
The over one hour stage drama, produced by Chinonso Udeh also features artistes such as Boma Ilamina-Eremie, Grace Okonkwo, Emeka Uba, Kelechi Moses among others.