Isioma Okey-Nwosu in Under the Influence: "I'm not easily swayed"

In episode 3 of Under the Influence, Dami’s rise in the digital space takes a pivotal turn as he secures his first influencer deal, one that he feels could launch his career. The deal looks promising but while Oye pushes him to take the leap, Ayo isn’t convinced. “Nothing in life is certain but a risk,” Oye says, nudging Dami towards the deal. 

Oye (Isioma Okey-Nwosu), a street-smart hustler with an instinct for finding opportunities - even in chaos - is the childhood friend and self-appointed manager of Dami (Iremide Adeoye). Oye is both an enabler and a protector, propelling Dami toward success, sometimes with unintended consequences. What he lacks in structure, he makes up for in loyalty and sheer determination. 

Watch the trailer for Under the Influence

Isioma Okey-Nwosu delves into his role, the nuances of social media fame, and the unique perspective Under the Influence brings to the screen. 

What do you think is the sustaining factor between Oye and Dami’s relationship? 

I think the sustaining factor might just be the fact that Oye is quite a loyal friend. He is also streetwise compared to Dami - you get? Oye helps Dami manoeuvre in some areas where I don’t think Dami would thrive. So, I think that’s what holds their friendship together. 

Oye forms a bond with a mute lady. Without giving spoilers, how do you think that helped his character evolve? 

Well, I don’t know exactly, but I’m just gonna say, that Oye is a talkative fellow. He’s always "cho cho cho" (he jokes). And it’s only right that his significant other is quiet. But in helping his character, I think the relationship helped reduce this. It calmed him down in relating and trying to understand her, I guess. 

In your opinion, what do you think is the most impactful part of this drama? 

Well, I’m gonna say the whole series, because it kind of shows you how a social media influencer navigates life, which is not something we see regularly. We all just see the influencers online, we know that this person appears well, but we do not see the trials and tribulations that most of them go through. Although some people try to show you their behind-the-scenes and all that, I think the show, in all, is great, it gives you that insight from different perspectives and different angles. 

What is the craziest thing you’ve done for social media validation? 

To be honest, nothing. I’m not easily swayed. If you people don’t like me, you don’t like me - that’s the way I see it. If you guys check my social media, I do not do much. Followers are little? No problem. Whoever wants to see me will see me when the time is right. That’s just the way I feel about it.  

Whether Oye is making deals, stirring up trouble, or learning unexpected lessons along the way, one thing is certain - Oye is a character that viewers won’t forget anytime soon. 

Episodes 1-3 are now available to stream on Showmax, with new episodes released every Friday. 

Watch the full interview below