Celebrity stylist Yolanda Okereke has shared insights on her work for the upcoming film adaptation of The Secret Lives of Baba Segi’s Wives, produced by Mo Abudu’s EbonyLife Films.
The movie is set for a global cinema release in December 2026.
Okereke told Nollywire that adapting a well‑loved story comes with responsibility because many fans already feel connected to the characters from Lola Shoneyin’s acclaimed 2010 novel. “It’s very sacred,” she said.
“It’s not a new material. It’s something a lot of people are familiar with… a book that is iconic for telling an authentic story.”
The novel has been translated into several languages and adapted for stage and screen before, making it one of Africa’s most recognisable portraits of family life, polygamy, rivalry and social hierarchy.
Okereke explained that her role goes beyond selecting outfits. She said the clothing must help tell each character’s story and reflect their upbringing, social status and personality. “We’re all a product of our environment,” she said. “What kind of home are you coming from? How you were brought up… determines what you’re going to be like as an adult.”
She added that costume is the first layer of storytelling. Audiences should be able to read the characters visually before they speak. Her designs aim to show who is restrained, who is expressive, who signals affluence and who performs it.
Okereke also highlighted the drama central to the story. “When you have four wives in a compound, there’s going to be a lot of fights… a lot of contention.” Costume is used to underline tensions, hierarchy, and the unspoken rivalries between the characters.
She kept many details under wraps for now. “I can’t give out so much… there will be nothing to look forward to on the screen.”
The film features a star-studded cast, including Odunlade Adekola as Baba Segi, with Iyabo Ojo, Mercy Aigbe, Bimbo Ademoye, Omowunmi Dada, Shaffy Bello, Bisola Aiyeola, Lateef Adedimeji, Kunle Remi, Tina Mba and Daniel Etim Effiong.
Produced in collaboration with Genesis Group, Nile Media Entertainment Group, and Silverbird Group, the movie is adapted by Adze Ugah and directed by Daniel Oriahi. It marks EbonyLife Films’ return to big-screen releases after several years focused on streaming, bringing a celebrated literary story to cinemas this holiday season.
