Abike Dabiri and Portuguese Star Features in Anikulapo (The Ghoul Awakens) Cast
Global excitement surrounding Kunle Afolayan’s supernatural epic has reached a new peak following the official unveiling of the Anikulapo The Ghoul Awakens cast, which introduces a striking blend of diplomatic personalities and international screen stars. In a development that has captured attention across political and entertainment circles, Abike Dabiri Erewa, Chairman of the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission, is set to make her professional acting debut in the highly anticipated Netflix series. She is joined by acclaimed Portuguese film and television actor Pedro Teixeira, a casting choice that signals a bold cross continental collaboration and elevates the project to a truly global platform.
Renowned for redefining the scope of African storytelling, Kunle Afolayan revealed these major additions through a compelling teaser released on Monday. The inclusion of Abike Dabiri Erewa adds a rare layer of prestige to the production, marking the return of the former veteran broadcaster to the screen in a fictional role that expands the evolving Yoruba mythology at the heart of the series. Although details of her character remain undisclosed, her involvement reinforces the project’s underlying theme of linking Nigerian identity across borders, professions, and spheres of influence.
The global reach of Anikulapo The Ghoul Awakens is further strengthened by the casting of Pedro Teixeira, whose presence hints at a storyline that stretches well beyond the ancient Oyo Empire. This decision aligns with the series’ international filming strategy, which included scenes shot in the historic Cape Coast area of Ghana. Through collaboration with the Ghana National Film Authority, Afolayan crafts a narrative that explores the deep historical and spiritual connections between West African societies and the wider Atlantic world. Teixeira’s role is widely expected to serve as a pivotal link within this expansive supernatural journey.
Leading the ensemble once again is Kunle Remi, reprising his role as Saro, a layered and conflicted protagonist. He is joined by an impressive lineup of established talent, including Sola Sobowale, Bimbo Ademoye, and Gabriel Afolayan. The cast is further enriched by Ghanaian actress Fella Makafui and popular Nigerian content creator Bukunmi Adeaga Ilori, widely known as KieKie. This dynamic blend of veteran performers, contemporary digital voices, and international actors forms a diverse creative force poised to attract a broad global audience when the series premieres on Netflix on January 30, 2026.
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As a sequel to the 2024 release Rise of the Spectre, The Ghoul Awakens ventures deeper into the terrifying consequences of defying death. The story follows Saro as he confronts an even more ancient and formidable threat that tests the limits of his control over the spiritual realm. With ambitious cinematography and a cast that seamlessly connects Nollywood with the global film industry, Kunle Afolayan once again positions himself at the forefront of African cinema. Anticipation continues to build as audiences await how these new characters will shape the destiny of the Oyo Empire.