This archive report was first published on 15 September 2019.
Actress Lupita Nyong'o has been cast in the lead role of Ifemelu in the upcoming HBO Max series Americanah, based on the novel by Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie.
The series, which has been given a straight-to-series order, follows Ifemelu's experiences with love, heartache, and self-discovery as she travels to America.
However, Nigerians have expressed disappointment and frustration with the casting decision, arguing that a Nigerian actress would have been more suitable for the role due to the importance of accurately portraying the Nigerian accent.
"They need to stop doing this," tweeted @MeetHajaar. "We have fine actresses from Nigeria who can play these roles better. Lupita is good but try other people who are Nigerians."
Others have also criticized the decision, suggesting that there are many talented Nigerian actresses who could have played the role, such as Yvonne Orji.
But Kenyans on Twitter have hit back, telling Nigerians to "live with the reality" of Lupita's role in the new movie.
"Anyone can mimic the Nigerian accent just fine even aliens and zombies," tweeted @KegAmbassadorKE. "So ya'all stop drama with the accent argument and wait for the real drama to come to your tv screens."
The debate has sparked a heated Twitter war between Kenyans and Nigerians, with both sides exchanging bitter words and accusations.
