Uduak-Obong Patrick is a Force, and He is Building His Empire Right Here in Nollywood

Uduak-Obong Patrick’s journey began when a theatre major with a passion for the arts sought to elevate his career. With a flair for dancing and a love for film, he learned from acclaimed filmmaker Emem Issong-Misodi, honed his skills under the mentorship of Victor Sanchez Aghahowa—currently the Head of Production, West Africa at Multichoice Group—and underwent three months of rigorous training with the late filmmaker Amaka Igwe.

His dedication spanned three and a half years, culminating in his debut feature film, “Just Not Married”, which was selected for the City to City Program at the 2016 Toronto International Film Festival. This pivotal moment marked the beginning of a remarkable trajectory.

From that foundation, Uduak-Obong’s career flourished. With experiences across television series, lifestyle programs, and reality TV, he was well-prepared for his latest venture, “Force Empire”.

This film provides a gripping behind-the-scenes look at the Nigerian Police Force while addressing pressing societal issues such as police brutality, sexual harassment, and corruption. “”Force Empire” is a film that resonates deeply with us as Nigerians—a topic we often avoid discussing. The project spoke to my soul, which allowed me to creatively immerse myself in the story,” Uduak-Obong shared, reflecting on his approach to crafting the film.

Given the Nigerian Police Force’s contentious relationship with the public, he acknowledges the challenges inherent in this narrative. “They are among the most disliked people in our nation. But they are also human. Every creative decision was made to convey that the Police are your friends, called to serve and protect lives and property.”

By balancing these perspectives, Uduak-Obong aimed to create a narrative that showcases the strengths of the police force. “There are many dedicated individuals doing their jobs; they are not just stereotypical illiterates or school dropouts. By the end of making the film, I realized that the Nigerian Police Force is one of the best on the continent; we just don’t celebrate them enough.”

To bring his vision to life, Uduak-Obong drew inspiration from American director Guy Ritchie, hoping to craft his own action-drama masterpiece. “I might just be the Nigerian Guy Ritchie someday,” he chuckled. “Action films are becoming my forte, and I admire how Ritchie blends action with drama. During shooting, I adopted some of his styles as templates for “Force Empire”.” This desire to innovate while honoring cinematic traditions reflects his commitment to producing compelling narratives.

Film serves as a powerful tool for shaping national narratives and can drive change, especially in Nigeria. Uduak-Obong and producer Ndy Akan focused on authenticity in “Force Empire”. Although audiences may not fully understand the inner workings of the Nigerian Police Force, their experiences with officers shape their perceptions. “We’re not trying to whitewash them; we’re here to humanize them,” he stated. With the producer’s connections to the police, they prioritized authenticity. “I learned about the ranks and uniforms from officers who assisted us during filming. For instance, the lead character, DCP Mfon, advances through various ranks, which affects her uniform and gear.”

Uduak-Obong further emphasized that authenticity in film comes from thorough research. “The research didn’t stop at pre-production; it continued throughout filming. We shot in Lagos, Uyo, and Abuja, where the PRO for the Abuja police branch ensured that our portrayal was accurate. For example, Richard Mofe-Damijo’s character rises to the rank of Inspector General of Police, and we made sure his uniform was authentic.” This dedication to detail highlights his commitment to producing a film that resonates with audiences while remaining true to its subject matter.

In addition to tackling the complexities of the police force, “Force Empire” addresses sexual harassment, particularly rape, and examines how these issues are handled within the Nigerian Police Force. When asked about the film’s role in the ongoing discourse surrounding these issues, Uduak-Obong asserted, “As a filmmaker, I’ve created two films that demonstrate that rape victims can achieve justice—”Force Empire” and “Higher Crime”. We want people to understand that rape is punishable by law. In “Force Empire”, a panel of inquiry investigates a rape case, and we ensured that the investigation was thorough, leading to a satisfying conclusion.” His focus on justice underscores the film’s importance in advocating for change.

The film features a star-studded cast, including Richard Mofe-Damijo, Nse Ikpe-Etim, Segun Arinze, Tony Umez, Mercy Aigbe, and Kunle Coker. Uduak-Obong found the experience of working with Nollywood veterans unforgettable. “Meeting RMD during my first year at the University of Benin was surreal. Fast forward a few years, and I’m directing him in “Force Empire”. Hearing him praise my work humbled me,” he recalled, nostalgia evident in his voice. “It was powerful to have him lend a voice to significant issues in this film.”

He praised Ikpe-Etim as a “silent tsunami,” reflecting on their first meeting when he worked as a property master. Her role as DCP Mfon, determined to seek justice for her protégée, ASP Halima, solidified her status as a powerhouse in Nollywood. “Nse was phenomenal; she believed in my vision, and it was great to mold her character together.” This collaborative spirit among the cast contributed to the film’s authenticity and emotional depth.

Uduak-Obong also commended Kunle Coker and Segun Arinze for their collaboration. “I engage my actors in discussions about their characters before shooting, ensuring they’re deeply immersed in their roles. I strive for realism, which is exactly what “Force Empire” represents.” His commitment to fostering an environment of collaboration is evident in the film’s powerful performances.

Filming across three cities presented its challenges, especially with a crew of three hundred, plus police escorts. “I lost some belongings, which was frustrating,” he chuckled. “Traveling across Nigeria, navigating crowds, and coordinating police parades was an experience. Our biggest challenge, however, was financial; with more funds, we could have extended our shoot and improved various aspects of production. Still, I’m grateful for what we achieved.” This gratitude reflects Uduak-Obong’s perspective on the creative process and its inherent challenges.

Shot in January 2022, “Force Empire” had to wait two years before its cinematic release. “Initially, there were no plans for a theatrical debut; it was meant for direct-to-streaming. But when it premiered in August 2024, I felt immense gratitude that people could see the film I worked hard on. Every director dreams of a cinematic release to boost their career statistics.” This sense of fulfillment highlights the significance of this moment in his career.

If you’re considering watching “Force Empire”, do it not just for the star power but for the entertainment value and its impact on your perceptions. “This film is unexpected,” Uduak-Obong encourages. “It might shift your perspective on life and issues. We must acknowledge that what we watch influences our culture. Just look at the Korean wave in Nigeria—K-dramas, food, and cosmetics are flying off the shelves. Nigerian filmmakers need to be intentional about using our films to change narratives. I’m committed to using film as a catalyst for positive change in our nation.”

For Patrick, “Force Empire” isn’t just a film – it’s a statement. It’s proof that Nigerian cinema can tackle tough topics, showcase world-class talent, and still keep audiences on the edge of their seats.

“Force Empire” is currently showing in cinemas nationwide.