DADDY'S PRINCESS

Written by

Frances Okeke

Based on a story by

Frances Okeke

[email protected]
@thefrancesokeke
+2348025292989
 DADDY'S PRINCESS 1.

FADE IN:

1 INT. THE OBI’S, AMARA’S ROOM - DAY 1

A pretty, plump girl of thirteen in cornrows in a chair,

stares out the open window, a vacant look in her eyes. Her
gaze doesn’t break. Her hands are folded neatly on her lap.

A bird perches on the flower outside, she breaks into a

smile. Three figures, behind her by the open room door
discuss. Only their feet are visible.

MALE 1 (O.S.)
How’s she?

FEMALE 1 (0.S)
Better. Hasn’t spoken yet. We think
her being back in familiar
surroundings will help.

FEMALE 2 (O.S.)
Doctor, thank you. God bless you.

FEMALE 1 (O.S.)
I’m just doing my job. You can go
in.

The man’s feet walk into the room. His hand touches her
shoulder. She turns, looks at him and goes berserk. Doctor’s
feet runs in, followed by two males.

Their hands press her down to the bed, she screams still in
tears, her eyes transfixed in horror at a figure unseen.

DISSOLVE TO:

2 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - MORNING 2

An attractive lady in her early forties looks down at a

sleeping figure.

MRS OBI
Amara! Amara! Amara!!!

The girl from the previous scene, wakes up.

AMARA
(groggy eyed)
Mum? I’ve told you not to enter my
room without...

Mrs obi smacks her playfully.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 2.

MRS OBI
You were screaming.

AMARA
Oh.

Mrs obi, pulls the bed cover. Amara gets down.

MRS OBI
You can tell me all about this
nightmare while you get ready for
lesson.

AMARA
It was nothing, just some mean
girls in my class...

MRS OBI
Go on.

Amara raises her top up then stops and glares at her mum.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Go on.

AMARA
Mum?

Mrs Obi looks at her questioningly, Amara, raises her top up

briefly and stops, folds her arms.

MRS OBI
(laughs)
I’ve seen you naked before, a
million times and...
Amara is resolute. Mrs Obi laughs her heart out.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Alright, alright..

She moves to the door and turns the door knob, turns to look
at Amara.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Hurry, your dad is about leaving.

Amara’s eyes widen. She runs into an adjoining room.

3 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVINGROOM - MOMENTS LATER 3

It’s middle class but tastefully furnished. The same leg from
the scene one taps impatiently on the floor.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 3.

Amara runs in with her backpack. MR OBI, athletic in his late

forties with a greying temple rises to his feet. Amara hugs
him.

AMARA
Morning dad. I’m so...

MR OBI
Sorry? You’re always late.

Mrs Obi hurries in with a food pack, hands it to Amara.

MRS OBI
I wonder who she got that from.

MR OBI
Definitely, not me.

Amara and Mrs Obi look at themselves and burst into laughter.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
What?

MRS OBI
(mimics thinking)
Why were we late to church last
Sunday?

MR OBI
(defensively)
I couldn’t find my shoes?

AMARA
(laughs)
You have lots of shoes, dad.
MR OBI
That’s just one incident.

MRS OBI
..To the Adesanya’s party, for
Amara’s junior school graduation...

MR OBI
That was...

MRS OBI
And who’s about to be late for
court now?

They all turn to look at the wall clock, it’s 7:45 am. Mr Obi
picks up his briefcase hurriedly, kisses his laughing wife.
Amara hugs her mum , they rush out.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 4.

4 INT. THE OBI’S, LIVING ROOM - DAY 4

Amara plays a game of chess with her dad. They study each
other’s moves. Mr Obi makes a move. Amara displays no emotion
as she strikes and takes his queen.

MR OBI
Bravo! I taught you well.

Amara gets up all smiles and takes a bow.

5 INT. THE OBI’S , KITCHEN - NIGHT 5

Amara gists with her mum inaudibly in the kitchen all excited
as she helps her dice carrots while her mum fries chicken.

6 INT. THE OBI’S , DINING - MOMENTS LATER 6

They eat happily.

AMARA
But I cooked it. Mum, please defend
me here.

They laugh.

MRS OBI
She did the cooking.

MR OBI
Impressive. Chef Amara could daddy
please have your autograph?

AMARA
If he gives me a gift first.

MRS OBI
Your wish is my command, my
princess chef commander.

They all laugh.

7 EXT. THE STREET - DAY 7

Amara races down the road on a bicycle, a tall handsome nerdy

bottle of a glasses wearing SAMMY, 13. Amara wins the race.

SAMMY
You cheated!

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 5.

AMARA
Sammy you’re just a clown. Learn to
accept defeat, dude.

SAMMY
I demand a repeat.

AMARA
Fine! Loser buys pizza tomorrow.

SAMMY
Deal. 1, 2,3, go.

Amara let’s him take the lead start then joins in. She’s
leading and laughing.

8 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 8

Amara plays a video game. She curses and swears as she plays.
A car horn blasts from outside. She ignores it and keeps at
her game.

The car horn blasts again. She drops the game, runs outside.

9 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 9

Amara hurries in with her dad’s briefcase. Mr Obi follows her

in, his tie is loose. He settles into a chair.

Amara goes into the house then comes back without it.

MR OBI
Did your mum tell you when she’ll
be back from church?
AMARA
Nope. I can serve your food.

He waves it off. She sits beside her dad. She looks at him
questioningly. He looks at the clock , it’s 10:00 PM. He
notices her stare.

MR OBI
What?

AMARA
You promised ,dad.

MR OBI
What’s that?

Amara looks away, cheek in her palm. Mr Obi laughs.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 6.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Get me my briefcase.

Amara looks at him, he nods his head, her face breaks into a
smile , she dashes off then back with the briefcase.

He opens it then hands her a game DVD. She jumps at him

excited. Hugs and rains kisses over his face. Mr Obi laughs.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
I can’t disappoint my princess.

She runs to the playstation and slots in the new game.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
(feigns disappointment)
Why can’t you ask for makeup,
dresses and girly things like other
girls?

AMARA
Dad, I'm thirteen what will I do
with makeup? Plus you bought me my
first game and taught me how to
play.
(holds up her game pad)
You up for it?

MR OBI
Sure!

He settles to the floor beside her, picks up the other game

pad.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Let me show you how it’s done.
Amara laughs.

10 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 10

Amara drops her pad in a victory dance.

MR OBI
The student has become the master.

AMARA
I can’t wait to tell Sammy I beat
you.

Mr Obi looks at the clock again. It’s 11:15.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 7.

MR OBI
Ok, Off to bed, Princess. I'll wait
up for your mum.

AMARA
I don’t feel sleepy. I can wait
with you.

MR OBI
You need your beauty sleep.

AMARA
That’s for girls.

MR OBI
(laughs)
And what are you?

AMARA
A rational human being whose life
doesn’t revolve around boys and
fashion.

MR OBI
(laughs harder)
Good night princess.

He hugs her , she hugs him back .

AMARA
(convincingly)
I can make you coffee as we wait.

Mr Obi shakes his head.

AMARA (CONT’D)
Love you dad.

MR OBI
Love you too , princess.

She exits grudgingly.

DISSOLVE TO:

11 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - EARLY MORNING 11

Mr Obi is still in his office wear from the previous night.

Mrs Obi has a scarf on her head.

MR OBI
...and who says you have to?

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 8.

MRS OBI
The bible. If you serve the lord
with all your heart and all ...

MR OBI
Come on, Ada. Come on. You’re more
learned than this.

MRS OBI
Nonso, what’s that supposed to
mean?

MR OBI
Don’t take it the wrong way but you
don’t have to sleep in church
everyday to get something from God.

Mrs Obi takes it in.

MRS OBI
Is it a child you’re referring to
as something?

MR OBI
(raised voice)
We both know children are made by
having sex and I can’t remember the
last time we had any. You’re always
in that damn church.

Mrs Obi gasps. He looks up notices she’s in tears.

Mr Obi runs his head through his head, he touches her , she
pushes his hand away.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
I'm sorry. You know I love you. I’m
happy as we are. We have Amara.

MRS OBI
Your people are not happy.

She breaks down . He holds her, she lets him. She sobs into
his shirt. He kisses her. She pushes him away.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

What do you think you’re doing?

MR OBI
Making a baby?

MRS OBI
I’m tired.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 9.

She settles into bed. Mr Obi sighs.

MR OBI
Fred is coming into town, next
week.

Ada hisses.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
What?

MRS OBI
I don’t like him and you know it.

MR OBI
He’s one of my best...

MRS OBI
He’s evil. He always puts you in
trouble.

MR OBI
He’s staying at Musa’s.

MRS OBI
Better!

She settles into sleep. Mr Obi takes off his shirt.

12 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 12

Amara plays video game with Sammy.

SAMMY
Mehn, I'm no more playing with you.
AMARA
(singsong)
Sammy is a sissy. Sammy is a sissy.

SAMMY
You must have found a cheat for the
game.

AMARA
You’re just a sore loser. I beat my
dad yesterday and...

SAMMY
No way dude!

AMARA
Yes way!

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 10.

SAMMY
Your dad taught us how to play.

AMARA
When we were six, seven years ago.
Let’s go another round. Who knows
(laughs)
You could win.

SAMMY
Nah! I’ll pass.

AMARA
Hmmmm! So, I'd be telling Tricia,
the new girl that you like that I
beat you at...

SAMMY
(gasps in shock)
You wouldn’t!

AMARA
(serious faced. Tilts her
head to the side)
Sammy, do I ever bluff?

They peer into each others eyes. Sammy picks up his game pad.
Amara laughs.

13 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - DAY 13

Mrs Obi is by the dresser. She writes into her laptop. Her
phone rings. She’s into her writing.

It rings again, she looks at the caller ID, it shows ‘ PASTOR

JOHN’. Her face breaks into a smile.

MRS OBI
Good afternoon pastor...
(laughs)
The weather is something
else....you’re right.....she’s not?
She told me she’ll make it...oh,
that’s true, her mother-in-law’s
birthday...

Her left hand plays with the edge of her laptop

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

I'll do it.....pastor it’s not a
problem, I love working for the
lord...My husband understands.
(MORE)

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 11.
MRS OBI (CONT’D)
He loves the lord too....Amara can
handle that....
(laughs)
I’ll be there in thirty minutes...
(laughs)

14 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 14

There are drinks, a bowl of chips and an open carton of pizza

beside them on the floor. They’re lost in the battle. They
yell curse words as they play.

A door opens and closes in the distance. Footsteps approach.

SAMMY
What the fuck! Shit !

Mrs Obi walks in, bible, bag, and scarf in her hands and
head.

MRS OBI
Samuel!

SAMMY
(jerks)
Mum, good afternoon.

MRS OBI
You shouldn’t use such language.

Amara laughs at his discomfort.

SAMMY
I’m sorry mum, it will never happen
again.
MRS OBI
It better not.

SAMMY
Please, don’t tell my dad.

MRS OBI
(smiles)
Unless you break your word.

Sammy heaves a sigh of relief.

AMARA
Mum, he even called me...

Sammy shakes his head at her. She enjoys it.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 12.

MRS OBI
What?

AMARA
His bestie.

Mrs Obi laughs. Sammy mouths ‘ I owe you’ to Amara.

MRS OBI
Isn’t that what you are? I'm off to
church.

AMARA
But mum, you promised you’d help me
go through my essay this night.

MRS OBI
Oh, I forgot. We’ll do it tomorrow
morning, love.

AMARA
Tomorrow is Sunday.

MRS OBI
After church, I promise. The stew
and soup I made this morning are in
the freezer, when your dad gets
back or you’re hungry.

AMARA
Sammy and I are having noodles.

MRS OBI
Ok. Sammy tell your mum, I'll bring
her book over on Monday. Bye
sweethearts!
AMARA SAMMY
Bye Mum! Bye Mum!

She exits in a hurry. They continue their game.

SAMMY
What soup is it?

AMARA
Egusi.

SAMMY
I don’t want noodles again.

AMARA
Na wa o!

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 13.

SAMMY
You know it’s my favorite.

AMARA
Make the eba yourself.

15 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 15

Sammy lies face up on the floor. He has three plates beside

him. Amara takes the last fork bite of her noodles.

SAMMY
Now, that was a meal.

AMARA
(feigns disgust)
Who eats egusi , garri and noodles?

SAMMY
Bush girl! It’s called a three
course meal. Don’t you watch the
food channel or go out? First,
chips, pizza and soda as appetizer,
the egusi and eba as main course
then the noodles as dessert. Yum,
yummy, yum!

Amara shakes her head at him.

AMARA
I’ll ask Tricia, if she’s heard
about your combo.

Sammy sits up fast.

AMARA (CONT’D)
I kid! I kid! Jeez! Relax!

SAMMY
Ama, I like her. I like her a whole
lot.

AMARA
Dude, she doesn’t even know you
exist.

SAMMY
I’m working on it.

Amara shakes her head in pity.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 14.

SAMMY (CONT’D)
I envy you. No siblings to disturb
you. I wish I could be alone at
home. Just once.

AMARA
It’s lonely. You have three
brothers, you’re the lucky...

SAMMY
Three elder brothers who’ve bossed
me around my whole life.

AMARA
Like, you don’t enjoy being baby of
the house. They spoil...

A car horn blasts outside.

AMARA (CONT’D)
Dad!

They hurriedly pack up the plates. Run into the house and run
out. Settle back into their game mode.

Door opens, in walks Mr. Obi.

AMARA (CONT’D) SAMMY

Good evening dad. Good evening dad

MR OBI
My two favorite people.

Amara stands, takes a grocery bag from him. He pecks her as

they hug.
AMARA
Thought I was your only favorite.

Sammy sticks out his tongue at her. She retaliates. Mr obi is

amused.

MR OBI
I’m famished.

He settles into a chair. Amara’s hands go though the bag.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
(taking his sneakers off)
Where’s your mum?

AMARA
She left for church.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 15.

Mr Obi’s hands stop. He looks up slowly, a dark look over his

face.

MR OBI
Did you say ‘church’?

Amara nods. Mr Obi gets up, takes the grocery bag from her.

AMARA
There’s fish stew and egu..

MR OBI
Good night kids.

He exits. The kids look at themselves. Sammy turns to the

clock. It’s 8:30 PM.

SAMMY
Whoa! My dad will kill me.

He picks up his bag.

DISSOLVE TO:

16 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 16

There is a bottle of liquor on the table. There’s just one

glass. Laughter all around. A hand picks up the glass FRED,
45, short and stocky with a slight Igbo accent.

FRED
I swear!

MR OBI
Freddy!
FRED
You should have seen the look on
her face.

MR OBI
Wait, she caught you?

Fred nods as he takes a sip off his drink.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
What did you do?

FRED
I told her the truth and nothing
‘megea’.

They laugh again.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 16.

MR OBI
If it were me, Ada would just
string me up by my balls.

FRED
Is she the reason you, the fish
that only drinks beer doesn’t drink
anymore?

The door opens, in walks Amara, back pack in tow. She smiles
on seeing her dad, looks at Fred with curiosity.

AMARA
Good evening dad! Good evening sir.

MR OBI
Amara, you’re late.

AMARA
Sorry dad. I was at Sammy’s.

MR OBI
Come , come meet daddy’s best
friend. I’ve known him since I was
seven.

Amara mouths a silent wow. She’s excited, goes closer. Fred

rises and hugs her.

FRED
This is the small baby I carried?
Agric children of these days.

They all laugh.

MR OBI
She’ll always be scrawny to me.

AMARA
Dad!

They all laugh.

MR OBI
Princess, please warm the soup and
make us some eba.

Amara exits.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
My baby is thirteen and will get
into senior secondary school this
year.
(MORE)

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 17.
MR OBI (CONT’D)
Before you know it she will write
Jamb and go to UNN like we did.

FRED
Why not send her to a private
university?

MR OBI
Those glorified secondary schools?

They laugh. He pours another drink.

FRED
Is Sammy a girl?

MR OBI
Boy.

FRED
Nonso, you’re telling me your
thirteen year old daughter has a
boyfriend and you’re OK with...

MR OBI
No , they’re just friends, best
friends. They’re like brother and
sister.

Fred shrugs and takes another sip off his drink.

17 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 17

Amara clears plates off the table. Her cleavage is a little

visible as she is. Fred unwavering stare is on it.
FRED
Amara, heard you’re entering senior
secondary this year.

She picks up the tray with a smile.

AMARA
Yes sir.

FRED
What do you want to study?

MR OBI
She wants to be a lawyer like me.

FRED
Two lawyers under one roof.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 18.

They all laugh. Amara exits with the tray. Fred’s eyes are on
her buttocks as she walks away.

FRED (CONT’D)
She has really grown.

MR OBI
She looks more like her mother
every day.

FRED
Speaking of Ada.
(he points at the wall
clock)
It’s ten PM. Does she work this
late every day?

MR OBI
(laughs)
No. She’s in church.

FRED
Ada don turn pastor?

MR OBI
How now? She helps out at the
church.

FRED
What church operates at this time?

MR OBI
You don’t understand, Fred.

FRED
Nwokem, explain am na.
MR OBI
In case the pastor needs help
writing his sermon, making
arrangements, visiting...

FRED
Is she the pastor’s wife or yours?

Mr Obi is silent. A confused look on his face.

FRED (CONT’D)
You will stay here and what
happened to my neighbor in Abuja
will happen to you. Five of his
children, none, kama ofu, not even
one came from his semen.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 19.

Mr Obi is shocked. A car horn blasts outside.

MR OBI
Fred, Ada is not like that.

FRED
How sure are you amara is your...?

MR OBI
Stop it biko.

The door swings open. Mrs Obi sashays in. Fred rises to his
feet. He moves close to her.

FRED
Nwunye anyi.

She shuns his hug and greeting.

MRS OBI
(to Mr. obi)
Good evening ,darling. Pastor sends
his greetings. Fred ,welcome.
How’re Ebube and the kids?

FRED
They’re fine, they...

MRS OBI
Darling, I'm off to bed.

She walks into the house. Fred is still on his feet. He turns
to Mr Obi, furious.

FRED
Did you see that?
Mr OBI
She didn’t mean it, she was...

FRED
Nwokem stop it. Even if she doesn’t
respect our friendship. She should
respect our culture. I’m a man. A
titled chief for that matter ‘Obata
obie 1 of Agulu kingdom’

MR OBI
Fred, please forgive her. I’ll talk
to her.

FRED
Nwokem, let me go.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 20.

He picks up his phones.

18 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER 18

Mrs obi is in her side of the bed. Her back is turned to Mr

obi who’s on his feet in his PJs. He fluffs his pillow,
raises the duvet, gets into his side of the bed.

He draws close to her, begins to rain kisses down her neck.

MRS OBI
Stop disturbing my sleep.

MR OBI
(chuckles)
Baby, we both know you’re wide
awake.

He continues raining kisses on her, she turns and pushes him

away.

MRS OBI
Nonso, not now.

MR OBI
It’s been almost two years.

MRS OBI
I’m tired.

He runs his hand through his head.

MR OBI
Ada, I love you , I will never
cheat on you but you’re not being
fair.

She ignores him.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Did the pastor tell you that having
sex with me is a sin?

She turns to face him.

MRS OBI
What does Pastor have to do with
this?

MR OBI
You’re always tired once you get
back from church.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 21.

MRS OBI
I’m human. I work at the office
then I work in Chur...

MR OBI
Then stop working in the church if
it’s always wearing you out.

She sits up.

MRS OBI
Nonso, do you even hear yourself
sometimes? How can you say that?
Working for God is great.

MR OBI
So is making love with your
husband. You used to love it. C’mon
just once and I won’t disturb you
again. Please!

He moves over to her. She climbs down the bed, picks up a

pillow.

MRS OBI
Enjoy the bed.

She bangs the door behind her. Mr Obi lays down frustrated.

19 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM 19

Amara tosses and turns in her sleep. She opens her eyes in a
start. She pants heavily. She sits up, fluffs her pillow and
lies back down.
She closes her eyes for a minute then opens it when her
stomach rumbles. She pulls her bed cover to a side .

20 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - CONTINUOUS 20

The room is dark. The light from the on TV casts a glimmer on

a corner.

Amara walks in, she walks sleepily to the other side of the
room, she shakes her head then walks back to the middle. She
notices the huddled figure on the sofa.

AMARA
Mum!

Mrs Obi stirs awake slowly.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 22.

MRS OBI
Hey sweetheart.

AMARA
Why’re you sleeping here?

MRS OBI
Your dad’s snoring drove me out.

AMARA
(giggles)
Again! Wow, dad’s been snoring a
lot these days.

MRS OBI
He denies it when you tell him.

AMARA
Does he need to see a doctor?

MRS OBI
No, it’s nothing serious. Why
aren’t you in bed?

Her stomach rumbles a reply. They both laugh.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Cornflakes?

Amara nods her head.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

I’d love some too.

21 INT. LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 21

They eat cornflakes as they watch a teenage film. They laugh
, and laugh again.

AMARA
Mum, did you meet dad’s best
friend?

MRS OBI
You mean Fred?

AMARA
(nods her head)
He’s very nice. He promised to
bring me a gift when...

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 23.

MRS OBI
I forbid you taking anything from
that man.

AMARA
But mum, he’s dad’s best friend,
though I wonder why I've never
met...

MRS OBI
Amara, listen to me, that man is
evil.

AMARA
And he’s dad’s best friend?

MRS OBI
Sometimes, we have friends that are
no good. We can’t see it but others
can.

AMARA
What did he do?

MRS OBI
Never mind. Just avoid him.

AMARA
I’m not a kid anymore you know. I
can listen to adult gist.

Mrs Obi swathes her playfully on the arm.

MRS OBI
Ok adult, pay for your school fees
then buy the sneakers you’ve been
crying for with your money.

AMARA
I was joking. I’m not an adult, in
fact I'm still a baby.

Mrs Obi laughs her heart out.

MRS OBI
Off to bed you go.

Amara packs up the plates.

AMARA
Mum you know you can sleep in my
room or the guest room.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 24.

MRS OBI
Thanks sweetheart. Come here.

Amara bends and pecks her, she kisses her back. Amara exits,
Mrs Obi puts off the TV.

DISSOLVE TO:

22 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 22

Amara is dressed up for lesson. She’s seated. She taps her

feet impatiently.

Mrs Obi is on her feet, a mug of coffee in her hand. The

clock strikes 8:00.

AMARA
Dad!

MR OBI (O.S.)
One minute!

AMARA
I have a test this morning. Mum, I
could take a bus to or ride my
bicycle to...

MRS OBI
You’d do no such thing.

She taps her feet on the ground some more. Mr obi runs out,
coat, wig and briefcase in hand.

MR OBI
I’m sorry princess.
AMARA
(rises)
Are you eating?

MR OBI
I’ll grab something on the way.

He walks over to Mrs Obi, tries to kiss her, she turns her
face, Amara notices. Mr obi sighs. Amara hugs her mum.

AMARA
Mum, dad’s sorry for snoring.

Mr and Mrs obi look at themselves.

MR OBI
Amara, let’s go.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 25.

They rush out. Mrs Obi’s phone rings.

MRS OBI
Good morning Pastor ...
(laughs) I'll be
there....right after
work....(laughs)

23 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 23

There is a bottle of liquor and one glass on the table. Fred

puffs on a Cuban cigar. A shopping bag is on the table.

MR OBI
You mean Chidi, the Chidi we used
to know that borrows money left,
right and center from everybody is
now rich.

FRED
Nna, stay there. He flies to Dubai,
UK and US like he’s flying to
Lagos.

MR OBI
Chai! What business is he into?

FRED
Nwokem, that one is not my business
but I heard it’s white gold.

Mr Obi looks confused.

FRED (CONT’D)
(lowers his voice)
Ntu?

Mr Obi still looks confused

FRED (CONT’D)
Cocaine!

Mr Obi shouts. They laugh over it.

FRED (CONT’D)
Nonso, you’re now a bachelor o. No
wife.

Amara comes in with a tray of food. Fred picks up the bag.

She sets the tray on the table.

MR OBI
I have my daughter.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 26.

They laugh. Mr Obi opens the food, it’s African salad. He’s
excited.

AMARA
I knew you’d like it.

MR OBI
Her father’s daughter.

Fred hands her the bag.

FRED
Amara, this is for you.

She twists her hands nervously. Shakes her head.

FRED (CONT’D)
Take it, your father is here.

AMARA
No, thank you sir.

MR OBI
Amara, take what your uncle bought.

She continues with the hands.

AMARA
No...mum...mum said...no..i..

MR OBI
(realization hits him)
Did your mum tell you not to take
anything from him?

Amara is uncomfortable.

24 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - NIGHT 24

They’re both on their feet. Mrs Obi is still in her work

wear.

MR OBI
You had no right, no right...

MRS OBI
She’s my daughter.

MR OBI
She’s mine too. Ada, first you
disrespect my friend then you tell
Amara...

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 27.

MRS OBI
What friend? That shameless
womanizer and thief.

MR OBI
Are you thinking he’d ....?
(laughs hysterically)
He’s not a pedophile.

MRS OBI
I don’t want him near my daughter.

MR OBI
Even if he was a pedophile, he
wouldn’t come near mine.

MRS OBI
Nonso, keep him away.

MR OBI
Before you forget yourself, I am
the man in this house not you.

MRS OBI
Tell him to stop coming here.

MR OBI
This discussion is over.

He goes to his side of the bed, pulls the bed cover and lies
down. Mrs Obi paces back and forth then stops.

MRS OBI
Chinonso Obi, if anything happens
to my daughter....
Mr Obi closes his open eyes. She gets into bed and backs him.

DISSOLVE TO:

25 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 25

A game is on. They chat as they play.

SAMMY
...about you?

Amara nods.

SAMMY (CONT’D)
Ama, what did you do?

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 28.

AMARA
Remember, dad’s best friend that
came around? Mum told me he was
evil and to never accept anything
from him.

Sammy pauses the game his eyes wide with interest.

SAMMY
That’s serious o.

AMARA
He bought me a gift, I couldn’t
take it, dad found out.

SAMMY
Wait, Is he a serial killer?

AMARA
(laughs )
You watch too much criminal minds.

SAMMY
Tell me you haven’t thought about
it?

AMARA
A drug dealer I think.

SAMMY
Or a cultist.

AMARA
I’ve told you to stop watching all
these Nigerian films.
SAMMY
My mum’s fault.

Amara picks up her game pad.

AMARA
You should become an actor so your
mum can watch you.

Sammy looks at himself , then looks at her like she’s stupid.

AMARA (CONT’D)
Tricia will like it too. Heard her
telling Enny that she loves Blossom
Chukwu something.

He adjusts himself, interested.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 29.

SAMMY
Blossom Chukwujekwu. He’s old joor.
Wait, Can I compete with him?

AMARA
That would be like comparing a
vulture with a dove.

SAMMY
(excited)
So, I'm finer.

AMARA
If a vulture can be.

Her answer dawns on him. He punches her playfully, she

punches him back, they go back and forth on it, Sammy loses
his balance.

Amara climbs on top him innocently and keeps hitting him.

The door opens, in walks Fred, he takes in the picture. He
coughs. They look up at him without fear.

AMARA (CONT’D) SAMMY

Good evening sir. Good evening sir.

26 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 26

MR OBI
(laughs)
I told you they were best friends .

FRED
She was on top him like they
were...
MR OBI
(laughs louder)
Stop.

FRED
It’s me you’re laughing at okwa ya?

MR OBI
You haven’t noticed?

FRED
Noticed what?

MR OBI
No make up, no fixing of hair, no
earrings, no dresses, no skirts...

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 30.

FRED
My daughters like them.

MR OBI
Amara doesn’t. She doesn’t even
like boys.

FRED
Is it girls she likes?

MR OBI
Fred! I’m saying she doesn’t have
time for such things. All she cares
about are her books, her video
games, her music and her sneakers.

FRED
I will be here when...

MR OBI
She and Samuel have been friends
since they were four.

FRED
Ok o. So, when will Pastor Ada come
back today?

MR OBI
I’ve told you she’s not a pastor.

FRED
Nna, what do you want me to call
her when she stays in church till
midnight.

MR OBI
She thinks God will bless us with
another child if she serves him
more.

FRED
(laughs)
It means every night she comes back
both of you do vigil on top your
bed. No wonder you don’t complain.
Nonso, the man of action! Agu!

He shakes Mr Obi’s hand excitedly in the igbo traditional

way.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 31.

27 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - NIGHT 27

Mrs Obi is busy on her laptop in bed. Mr Obi reads a book,

the pages blur before his eyes. He closes it , drops on the
bedside table.

He glances at his wife. He moves closer to her. He kisses her

ear. She glares at him

MR OBI
You’re working too hard.

MRS OBI
I have to submit this tomorrow
evening.

MR OBI
(kissing her cheek)
There’s still time.

He massages her shoulders.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Your muscles are knotted up.

She enjoys the massage. He slips her dress off one shoulder.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
You should close that, take your
clothes off and lie on your back.

MRS OBI
Why?

MR OBI
So I can get at the tensed muscles.
You can do me after I do you.
(winks suggestively)

Mrs Obi, drags the fallen sleeve of her cloth up.

MRS OBI
Pastor John needs this tomorrow.

She continues her typing.

MR OBI
What about, what I need?

She ignores him.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 32.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Even God knows this is unfair. I’m
your husband, we should be spending
time together instead you place the
needs of a pastor above mine. Is he
God?

Mrs Obi closes her laptop, gets down the bed, picks up
pillow, laptop and a wrapper.

MRS OBI
I won’t stay here and watch you
blaspheme.

DISSOLVE TO:

28 INT. THE OBI’S, AMARA’S ROOM - DAY 28

Amara is dressed for class. She’s seated on the floor,

between her mother’s legs, whose fingers are deftly weaving
her hair.

Amara looks worried, her mouth opens, no words come out. She
musters courage.

AMARA
Are you going to divorce dad?

Mrs obi’s hands are still.

MRS OBI
Who put that ridiculous thought in
your head?

AMARA
(turns to her)
I’m not a kid anymore mum. You
avoid each other. You don’t sleep
in the room anymore.

MRS OBI
Your father’s snoring is...

AMARA
Dad doesn’t snore!

Mrs Obi holds amara’s face with her two hands.

MRS OBI
Sweetheart, your dad and I love
each other.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 33.

AMARA
Then why do you quarrel every
night?

Mrs Obi is shocked and embarrassed.

MRS OBI
Grown-ups quarrel. It doesn’t mean
they don’t love each other.

Amara isn’t buying it.

AMARA
You’re going to church every night
because of dad.

MRS OBI
No, to help pastor John.

AMARA
Mum, maybe you shouldn’t go to
church for a while.

MRS OBI
(sternly)
Amara!

Amara bursts into tears. Mrs obi is confused. She hugs her.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

It’s ok.

AMARA
(sobs)
I can’t lose you and dad. Sammy’s
parents are getting a divorce.
Amara sobs harder.

MRS OBI
Shh! It’s ok. We’ll never leave
you.

29 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 29

Sammy and amara play a game silently. She casts worried

glances at him.

SAMMY
Mehn, if you look at me again, I'll
punch you.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 34.

AMARA
No be eyes you take see me.

SAMMY
It’s a divorce not death.

AMARA
You’re sure you’re ok?

SAMMY
I’ll know when you let me win
again. You’re playing like a girl.

AMARA
I was feeling sorry for you.

Sammy sticks his tongue out at her, she does same. A car
horns outside.

AMARA (CONT’D)
Pity time is over.

She gives him the knife blade to neck signal. He laughs at

her. The door opens, Mr Obi drags himself in.

AMARA AND SAMMY

Welcome dad.

MR OBI
Thank you kids. Princess, did your
mum let you know when....

Mrs obi enters with a giant tray laden with food. Mr Obi is
shocked. She sets the tray on the table. Hugs him, Takes his
coat off. He sits. Sammy picks up his bag.
SAMMY
I should be on my way.

MRS OBI
Nonsense! You live next door.

SAMMY
I don’t want to interrupt your....

MRS OBI
Sammy sit, you’re family.

Tears glisten his eyes. He does as said.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Amara, get the drinks from the
kitchen. Sammy help her out.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 35.

They scamper off.

MR OBI
No church?

MRS OBI
(smiles)
I’ve missed my family.

They smile at each other.

30 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 30

They eat , laugh and talk inaudibly. Amara gesticulates

wildly, she points to a corner of the room, their eyes follow
her hand.

She grabs a piece of chicken with the other off Sammy’s

plate. He tries to take it back. She runs round the parlor,
he’s in hot pursuit. She eats the chicken as she runs.

Mr and Mrs Obi laugh their hearts out. They settle back, Mrs
Obi gives Sammy two extra pieces of chicken.

He waves them each in one hand at Amara. He uses his tongue

to lick them. Amara is disgusted. They all laugh. They’re
having a good time.

31 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - NIGHT 31

Mrs Obi seats before the mirror, Mr. Obi is on his feet
behind her, He massages her shoulders.

MRS OBI
(moans)
That feels sooo good.

Mr Obi smiles. He keeps massaging , she leans into him, his

hand moves down her back, then to her chest, she breaks out
of her reverie, pushes his hands off, gets up and heads to
bed.

Mr Obi looks at her shocked. He joins her in bed. Moves

closer to her.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

I think you should take a cold
shower.

MR OBI
C’mon Ada.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 36.

MRS OBI
Good night!

She backs him and sleeps off. He touches her.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

(Without moving)
You either take the cold shower or
leave me to sleep in peace.

He looks at her , makes to say something then stops. He picks

up a pillow and a bed cover, bangs the door shut behind him.

32 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 32

The living room’s dark. Amara and Mr Obi hit each other in
the darkness. Amara yelps in pain. Mr Obi switches on the
light.

MR OBI
Princess, are you hurt?

AMARA
I’m ok.

MR OBI
Why are you up?

He picks his fallen pillow and bed cover.

AMARA
I was thirsty.

MR OBI
Ok, head back to bed.
Amara walks a little then stops.

AMARA
Dad, we could share my bed.

MR OBI
I’ll be fine Princess, good night.

AMARA
Good night dad.

DISSOLVE TO:

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 37.

33 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 33

Amara’s dressed for lesson. Mr Obi is in a chair, putting on

his shoes.

Mrs Obi runs out with a scarf and her handbag. She walks past
Mr Obi.

MR OBI
Why do you have a scarf with you?

MRS OBI
I’m going to church from work.

MR OBI
No you’re not.

He stands up.

MRS OBI
You can’t tell me not to serve God.

MR OBI
Ada, I'm your husband. I better see
you when I get back.

Amara looks from her mum to her dad, a confused worried look
on her face.

MRS OBI
Who do....?

AMARA
Mum please. Please. Dad it’s ok.
We’re late.
Mr obi picks up his briefcase and storms out without a word.
Amara hugs her mum with a weary smile then leaves.

34 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - EVENING 34

Their bags are on the floor behind them. They play a game of
cards. There’s no light.

SAMMY
Ama, that’s exactly what happened
to mine.

AMARA
My parents love each other.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 38.

SAMMY
So I thought, until my mum left.
You said it yourself. He doesn’t
sleep in their room anymore and
they ...

The lights come on.

SAMMY (CONT’D)
Up nepa! Game time.

They move.

SAMMY (CONT’D)
Your parents are getting a divorce.

AMARA
Sammy, take that back. I’m warning
you. Sammy...

She stops when she sees are father at the door, briefcase in
hand.

They greet him, he ignores. He looks straight at the clock,

it’s 7 o’clock PM, walks into the parlor, passes through for
his room. Amara and Sammy look surprised.

35 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 35

Fred sips from his glass in laughter. A car horn blasts

outside. Mr Obi’s face is grim. He looks at the wall clock,
it strikes 10 o’clock PM. Fred peers at his face.

FRED
Nna, what is it?
MR OBI
I told her not to go to church.

FRED
Maka why? Was she tired when you
were (imitates flogging motion with
his hand) yesterday?

Mr Obi is silent. Fred laughs heartily. The door opens, in

sashays Mrs Obi, she looks at them without a word, she walks
in, Mr Obi’s words stops her when she gets to the middle of
the room.

MR OBI
Where are you coming from?

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 39.

She ignores him and heads inside. Fred is peeved. Mr Obi goes
in after her. A door is banged shut from within. Fred takes a
sip off his drink. His hands pause midway when he hears
raised voices.

MRS OBI (O.C.)

You have no right!

MR OBI (O.C.)
I am your husband!!! Even the bible
says wife obey your husband.

Fred takes another sip.

MR OBI (O.C.) (CONT’D)

Ada! Ada!! I’m talking to you.

Amara runs into the parlor.

36 INT. BAR - MOMENTS LATER 36

There are loads of empty alcoholic drink bottles on their

table. Mr Obi tries to get up then falls, He sits back down.
Fred laughs at his drunk friend.

FRED
Nonso, ngwa let me take you home.

MR OBI
(shakes his head then
takes a gulp from his
glass)
We didn’t have sex.

FRED
(laughs)
Nwokem, you must not do it every
day.

MR OBI
Two years.

Fred looks at him in askance. Mr Obi takes another gulp.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
We haven’t had sex in two years.

FRED
Chineke!

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 40.

MR OBI
She doesn’t let me touch her
(laughs crazily) and she wants a
child.

FRED
You can talk to her pastor.

Mr Obi shakes his head.

FRED (CONT’D)
Nna, not having sex in a week can
make me sick. Big sickness o. Wait,
I can arrange woman for you here
and ...

MR OBI
I can’t cheat on my wife.

He takes another gulp off his drink.

DISSOLVE TO:

37 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 37

Mr Obi and wife are seated on opposite sides. Amara is on her

feet.

AMARA
Mum, dad, please talk to each
other.

They refuse to look at each other.

AMARA (CONT’D)
For my sake.

Silence.

AMARA (CONT’D)
Remember, we’re just coming back
from church and the pastor spoke
about forgiveness.

Silence.

38 INT. THE OBI’S, LIVING ROOM - EVENING 38

Fred and Mr Obi laugh as they eat. Amara strolls in, book in
hand.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 41.

AMARA
Dad, I'm going to Sammy’s for my
homework.

Fred’s busy staring at her chest.

MR OBI
Don’t stay long.

AMARA
I won’t.

She walks away. Fred's gaze moves to her ass as she walks
away.

MR OBI
I don’t know what I'm going to do
about Ada. I can’t marry another
wife and...

FRED
Shut up nwokem! You have two wives.

MR OBI
Two wives? Fred is the food getting
to your brain?

They laugh.

FRED
You have a second wife that loves
you very much.

MR OBI
Who’s that?
Fred points at the door Amara exited. Mr Obi laughs.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
My small wife.

FRED
Yes. I do it with my daughters.

MR OBI
Wait, do what exactly?

Fred mimics sex with his fingers.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
God forbid!

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 42.

FRED
Nna forget that thing. (He tears
into a meat) Lot’s daughters in the
bible, slept with him their father
and nothing happened.

MR OBI
It’s still an abomination.

FRED
It’s not. Our daughters are...

MR OBI
Fred biko let’s end this
discussion.

FRED
Ok o.

They eat in silence.

39 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 39

Amara shakes her dad awake. His body is half on the settee,
half on the floor. He stirs awake.

MR OBI
Princess?

AMARA
My bed is big enough or I can make
up the guest room for you.

DISSOLVE TO:

40 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - EARLY MORNING 40

Mr Obi opens his eyes, amara’s bust is on his chest, one

breast threatens to escape from her cloth. He stares at it
then closes his eyes.

Her right leg is draped over his groin. He moves her hand
from his face.

AMARA
(drowsy)
Dad, there’s a torchlight in your
pocket.

He moves her off his body fast then runs out the room with a
pillow over his groin.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 43.

41 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 41

Amara sits impatiently. Mrs Obi drinks from a mug. Mr Obi

saunters in , in casuals. Amara rises.

AMARA
Dad?

MR OBI
No work today.

Hands her a thousand naira note.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
That should cover your fare and
lunch.

Amara goes over to hug him, he sidesteps her, pats her on her
shoulder.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
I have a cold.

She hugs her mum and runs out with her backpack. Mr Obi makes
to speak to his wife but she exits.

DISSOLVE TO:

42 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 42

Amara sets a tray of food before her dad. Mr Obi’s eyes stray
to her breasts, he looks away fast. His eyes stray to her
figure, he closes his eyes and opens them.

MR OBI
Isn’t this cloth too tight on you?

AMARA
(Laughs)
Dad, I wore it last week and you
said it was nice.

MR OBI
It’s too tight. Change it!

Amara is amused. She exits.

DISSOLVE TO:

43 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 43

Amara and Sammy arm wrestle.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 44.

AMARA
If I win you, I must tell your
crush.

SAMMY
You think my muscles are made of
air?

They continue at it, Amara is losing, she uses her free hand
to tickle Sammy, he topples over to the floor in laughter.
Amara jumps to her feet in a victory dance. Sammy’s laughter
stops.

SAMMY (CONT’D)
Ama, there’s something in my eye.

She goes over to him, straddles him and looks into his left
eye. Mr Obi comes in from within the house , views her back
straddling Sammy.

MR OBI
What’s going on here?

They break apart.

AMARA
There’s something in his eye.

MR OBI
Sammy, go home.

AMARA
But dad he...

MR OBI
I said go home!!
Sammy picks up his bag fast and dashes out.

44 INT. THE OBI’S ,LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 44

Mr Obi’s face is stern. Fred screams.

FRED
I said it. I said it o. That girl
has started sampling. I said it.

He looks around then draws near to Mr Obi.

FRED (CONT’D)
(whispers)
Have you?

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 45.

MR OBI
(confused)
Have I what?

FRED
(whispers)
Sampled her?

Disgust is written all over Mr Obi’s face.

MR OBI
Bia Fred, go home.

FRED
Nna, what did I do?

MR OBI
Biko, leave my house.

Fred laughs hard. Picks up his phones then rises.

FRED
Before congy will kill you.

DISSOLVE TO:

45 INT. THE OBI’S , BATHROOM - NIGHT 45

Mr Obi stares at himself in the mirror. He runs his hand down

his face. Fred’s voice rings in his head.

FRED (V.O.)
Lot’s daughters in the bible,
slept with him their father and
nothing happened.

He shakes his head and stares at himself some more. His mind
wanders again.

Flashback scene 40 INT. AMARA’S ROOM - EARLY MORNING

Mr Obi opens his eyes, amara’s bust is on his chest, one

breast threatens to escape from her cloth.)

He slaps himself hard. His trembling hands on the faucet, he

pours water on his face repeatedly.

46 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - MOMENTS LATER 46

Mr Obi is on his knees in bed. Ada stares at the wall her

back to him.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 46.

MR OBI
Ada please, just once.

She ignores him, rolls her eyes.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Please, I'm begging you. I can’t
take this anymore. Please. Ada?

She ignores him, he touches her arm, she jerks away from him.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Don’t push me away.

47 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 47

Mr Obi fluffs his pillow, Ada tiptoes out.

MR OBI
Where to ?

Amara smiles sheepishly.

AMARA
Kitchen.

Mr Obi shakes his head.

MR OBI
Late night eating is bad. Back to
bed.

AMARA
But I'm hungry.
He shakes his head.

AMARA (CONT’D)
Ok. Dad, we could share my room.

MR OBI
Go to bed princess.

She walks away. He stares up at the dark ceiling.

DISSOLVE TO:

48 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 48

Amara’s dressed for class. She swings her sneaker decked feet
as she waits. She stops when she hears raised voices.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 47.

MR OBI (O.S.)
I said no.

MRS OBI (O.S.)

Who do you think you are?

MR OBI (O.S.)
If you go for that vigil don’t come
....

Mrs obi storms into the room.

MRS OBI
Try and stop me.

Mr Obi raises his hand at her. He looks from her to Amara

then puts his hand down.

MR OBI
(menacingly)
Ada, don’t push me.

Amara looks from her dad then to her mum.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
(to amara)
Let’s go.

49 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVINGROOM - EVENING 49

Amara does her assignment. Mr Obi has a glass of juice before

him. He watches the news. He stares at Amara. He drags his
eyes away.

She puts her pen in her mouth then plays with it, it catches
his attention. He stares at the pen in her mouth. Amara looks
at him.

AMARA
Dad?

He clears his throat.

MR OBI
Take the pen out. It’s unhealthy.

She drags it out.

50 INT. THE OBI’S, AMARA’S ROOM - NIGHT 50

Amara opens her eyes to see her father on top her.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 48.

AMARA
(confused)
Dad? You smell of alcohol.

MR OBI
Shh! You love daddy don’t you?

Amara nods her head.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
And you’ll do anything to make
daddy, happy. You want daddy and
mummy to stay together.

Amara nods her head again.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
You know daddy loves you and will
never do anything to hurt you.

She nods her head slowly. He enters her, amara yelps in pain.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
I’m sorry princess. It hurts the
first time.

He keeps riding her, she turns her face to the side, cries
silently. He reaches orgasm and screams. He pecks her. He
looks down at her.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Don’t tell your mum. This is our
little secret.

She nods her head. He pecks her again.

DISSOLVE TO:

51 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - DAY 51

Mrs Obi weaves Amara’s hair. Mrs Obi talks on and on

excitedly but amara can’t hear a thing. Her mind is silent.
Mrs obi stops then taps her.

MRS OBI
Amara!

Amara turns to look at her confused.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

So, I've been talking to myself.
What’s wrong?

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 49.

AMARA
(dull)
Nothing.

Mrs Obi raises an eyebrow.

AMARA (CONT’D)
Nervous about writing starting
senior school?

MRS OBI
(laughs)
Is that it? We both know you’ll...

AMARA
Mum, can I follow you to vigil?

MRS OBI
(laughs)
You’re really bothered about this
JAMB. Amara, I need you to stay
home and take care of your dad. The
vigil is for seven days.

AMARA
Ok.

She faces forward, a lone tear escapes down her cheek.

52 INT. THE OBI’S, LIVING ROOM - DAY 52

Sammy does a victory dance.

SAMMY
I won ! I won! Tricia must be told
that I beat...

He stops, looks at Amara closely. Her face is blank.

SAMMY (CONT’D)
Haba! Ama, no teasing today?

AMARA
I’ll see you tomorrow.

SAMMY
What’s wrong? You’ve been weird all
day.

AMARA
I have a headache.

She gets up, Sammy is confused.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 50.

53 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - NIGHT 53

Amara in bed with a blank look. Mr Obi on his feet, puts on

his trousers.

MR OBI
I love you princess.

AMARA
I love you dad.

DISSOLVE TO:

54 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 54

Amara receives money from her dad. Mrs Obi in her glasses,
goes through her system.

MR OBI
That should do.

He moves forward to hug her, scared, she side steps him and
runs out. Mrs Obi laughs.

MRS OBI
Did you forget to get her something
you promised to?

55 INT. THE OBI’S, LIVING ROOM - EVENING 55

Sammy laughs as he talks. Amara stares at him blankly she

can’t hear a thing. His mouth says her name inaudibly to her
, then she hears it as he repeats.
SAMMY
Ama!

AMARA
What?

SAMMY
I think dad’s back.

Fear and horror washes over her face, sammy notices confused.

Mr Obi opens the door , enters.

SAMMY AND AMARA

Good evening dad.

MR OBI
Sammy how are you?

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 51.

SAMMY
Fine dad.

Mr Obi touches amara on the head, she’s on the floor facing

Sammy, she is repulsed at her father’s touch then scared,
Sammy takes it in.

MR OBI
How’s my princess?

56 INT. BAR - NIGHT 56

Lots of hot drinks before them. Highlife music plays in the

background.

FRED
(excited)
Take it.

He raises his hand, shakes him thrice in the traditional

titled men greeting.

FRED (CONT’D)
I told you she’ll be fine.

57 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - NIGHT 57

Amara cries silly. She hears a door open. She runs to hers
and locks it. The door handle turns twice.

MR OBI
Princess, open it’s daddy.

Amara shakes her head, staring at the door.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Please just this once. You know how
much I love you. Please...please
princess.

She opens the door. He rushes in. He cleans her face, then
hugs her. Lifts her off her feet. Kisses her on her lips.

DISSOLVE TO:

58 INT. THE OBI’S, LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 58

Amara and sammy in tears.

SAMMY
You have to tell mum.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 52.

Amara shakes her head vigorously.

AMARA
I can’t. Sammy please don’t.

A car horn breaks their silence. They look at each other,

wipe their faces. Mr Obi opens the door and walks in with
shopping bags.

SAMMY
Good evening dad.

MR OBI
Evening kids. Sammy isn’t it too
late for you to be out?

He looks at the clock it’s 8:30 PM.

SAMMY
We want to do an all night study.

MR OBI
Really?

He looks from Amara to Sammy.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Go home.

Sammy ignores him, distaste on his face.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Go home, sammy.

Sammy ignores him again.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Young man leave my house and never
come back.

He picks up sammy’s bag throws it at him.

59 INT. AMARA’S ROOM 59

The shopping bags are on the bed, Mr Obi brings out sneakers,
shoes and other things Amara likes.

MR OBI
Do you like them?

Amara nods her head , her face blank. Mr obi smiles at her.
He hugs her tight.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 53.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
I love you so much.

Amara’s silent. He unzips her top.

DISSOLVE TO:

60 INT. THE OBI’S, LIVING ROOM - DAY 60

Sammy stands impatiently in the parlor. Mr obi walks in from

his room, then dashes forward, furious on seeing him.

MR OBI
What are you doing here?

Sammy takes a step back. Mrs obi sashays in from within.

MRS OBI
Nonso, he said he wants to see me.

MR OBI
What for? I don’t want to see him
in this house again.

MRS OBI
Why?

MR OBI
I caught him kissing Amara, the
other day.

SAMMY
Mum, i...

MRS OBI
Sammy, I think you should leave
now.

Sammy makes to speak, gives up, exits.

61 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - NIGHT 61

MRS OBI
She’s changed.

Mr Obi by the wardrobe, his back to his wife, buttons his

pajamas.

MR OBI
(fear on his face)
Maybe it’s the effect of Sammy
kissing her.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 54.

MRS OBI
It might be more than that. She
doesn’t play her video games
anymore, she’s withdrawn and
distracted.

62 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - AT THE SAME TIME 62

Amara’s on the floor. She cries her eyes out. A resolute look
on, she rushes to her side drawer, brings out a bottle of
pills, she opens it and pours a handful into her mouth.

63 INT. THE OBI’S , BEDROOM - CONTINUOUS 63

MR OBI
You worry too much, Ada. I think
she’s decided to be a normal
teenager.

His hands pause on the wardrobe as he waits to see if she

bought it.

MRS OBI
You have a point there.

Relief washes over his face.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

I’m going to talk to her, all the
same.

She gets off the bed.

64 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - CONTINUOUS 64

Amara is knocked out on the floor. Mrs Obi knocks on her

door..

MRS OBI
Amara! Amara!! Open up, it’s mum.
I'm coming in.

She enters the room. Takes in her weird position on the floor
and the open bottle of pills beside her. She rushes to her.
Shakes her vigorously in panic.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Nonso!!!

DISSOLVE TO:

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 55.

65 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 65

The whole family is seated.

MRS OBI
Why did you do it?

Amara’s mute, looks away.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Is it because you’re pregnant?

Amara and dad are shocked.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

The doctor told me two days ago.

MR OBI
Why didn’t you tell me?

MRS OBI
You had a big case to worry about.

MR OBI
My daughter is more important.
Princess, who’s the father?

MRS OBI
Answer your father!

She’s silent.

MR OBI
Don’t tell me it’s sammy . I’m
going to kill him.
MRS OBI
(disbelief)
No. Sammy is like her brother.

66 INT. BAR - NIGHT 66

MR OBI
What am I going to do? She’s going
to talk and..

FRED
She won’t. She loves you too much.

MR OBI
What if...

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 56.

FRED
Nwokem relax! You have the perfect
scapegoat.

DISSOLVE TO:

67 INT. THE OBI’S, LIVING ROOM - DAY 67

Sammy’s on his feet, so is Amara. SAMMY’S MOTHER is present,

a good looking woman in her thirties, looks too young to be
his mum.

SAMMY
(in tears)
Mummy, I swear, it’s not me. Sir,
ma, I didn’t. Amara is my sister.
(turns to amara)
Ama please tell them the truth.

AMARA
It’s not Sammy.

The adults exclaim.

SAMMY’S MUM
Then who Amara?

SAMMY
I...

Amara pleads with her eyes, sammy shuts up.

MRS OBI
Grace, this girl has killed me.
She rushes at Amara, Mr Obi and Sammy’s mum hold her back.

DISSOLVE TO:

68 INT. BAR - AFTERNOON 68

Mr Obi sits alone drinking. Fred joins him.

FRED
Sorry I'm late.

Mr Obi holds his hand.

MR OBI
(talks fast, nervous)
I’m finished.
(MORE)

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 57.
MR OBI (CONT'D)
I’ll be disbarred, my reputation
will be ruined, Ada will leave me,
I'll lose everything. You have to
help me, you dragged me into thi...

Fred drags his hand away.

FRED
What is it? Why’re you acting like
a woman.

MR OBI
Amara’s going to talk, she told me
she’ll tell Ada.

FRED
Ada, won’t believe her.

MR OBI
Not if a DNA test is done.

FRED
Then we remove the evidence,
simple.

69 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - MOMENTS LATER 69

They’re all on their feet. Fred hands amara, pills and a

glass of water. She shakes her head in tears.

FRED
Drink it.

She shakes her head again.

FRED (CONT’D)
An abortion is the only other
option.

Amara backs away slowly.

FRED (CONT’D)
Ngwa, let’s go.

AMARA
I’m not going anywhere with you.

Fred, impatient slaps her , pulls her by the arm. Mr obi

stops Fred.

MR OBI
Princess, you know I love you. I
know you love...

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 58.

AMARA
I hate you. I wish you’d die.

MR OBI
(hurt)
Don’t say that princess, I know you
don’t mean it.

AMARA
You’re not my father, you’re evil
and wicked.

An expression comes over Mr Obi’s face as he snaps. He slaps

her hard.

MR OBI
(Repeatedly)
You hate me?

He keeps hitting her. He punches her belly. Amara falls to

the ground, he punches it again and again. He kicks her
belly.

AMARA
Daddy please.

MR OBI
You hate me!!

He keeps kicking crazed. Amara passes out. Blood seeps out

from beneath her.

FRED
I think she has lost it.

MR OBI
(wipes his forehead)
Princess. Princess.

She doesn’t move.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
What have I done?

70 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 70

Mrs Obi has a duffel bag with her ,on her feet.

MRS OBI
Don’t worry, I'll stay with her.
You have to be in court tomorrow.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 59.

MR OBI
Where did we go wrong?

MRS OBI
We lost the baby. We might have
lost her too, if you hadn’t come
home early.

MR OBI
She must have slipped and fell down
the stairs, I was so scared, Ada.

Mrs Obi hugs him. She exits.

DISSOLVE TO:

71 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - EVENING 71

Amara has healing bruises on her face. She and sammy are in
tears.

SAMMY
Ama, please say something. I miss
you. Please talk to me.

Amara stares into space.

SAMMY (CONT’D)
Did he do this to you?

Mr obi walks in from work.

MR OBI
Get out!
SAMMY
Mum said I could vi...

Mr Obi drags him up.

MR OBI
Stay away from my daughter.

They glare at each other. Sammy leaves.

72 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - NIGHT 72

Mother and daughter sit side by side on the bed. There’s a

plate of food on Amara’s lap.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 60.

MRS OBI
Amara, please say something to
mummy. You haven’t said a word
since you got back from the
hospital.

Amara stares into space.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

We’re worried, your father and ...

Amara goes berserk. She throws the food on the ground in a

loud scream that doesn’t stop, kicks things off her dresser,
breaks things throws things around, hits her head over and
over.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

(scared)
Amara.

Mr obi runs in, grabs amara, she goes crazier.

DISSOLVE TO:

73 INT. DOCTOR’S OFFICE - DAY 73

There’s a bespectacled woman in her fifties , DR. ESSE .

She’s seated with the Obi’s.

DR ESSE
(same voice as the doctor
in scene 1)
Did she go through anything
traumatic?
MR OBI
None that we know of.

DR ESSE
Sir, madam, I understand every
family has their secrets but I need
to know everything, it can help me
with your daughter’s case.

MRS OBI
Doctor, she... she overdosed on
pills, she ..she was pregnant, she
slipped and fell down the stairs.
She just lost the baby.

Doctor Esse writes it all down.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 61.

DR ESSE
So she attempted suicide with
pills.

MRS OBI
Overdosed not suicide.

DR ESSE
That’s attempted suicide madam.
From what I've observed she’s
showing symptoms of depression and
has locked herself in her mind. Her
falling down the stairs, could be
another suicide attempt.

MRS OBI
Doctor, Amara is a happy girl.
She’s always been happy even as a
baby.

DR ESSE
Is she still the same girl?

Mrs Obi breaks down, Mr Obi holds her.

DR ESSE (CONT’D)
I’m sorry madam. We need to
identify the event that caused
this. She’ll be home soon.

74 INT. BAR - NIGHT 74

Highlife music blasts in the background.

MR OBI
My family is over. Fred this is
your fault.

FRED
Nwokem shut-up. This small thing
you want to piss in your pant.

MR OBI
I regret doing any...

FRED
Everything will be fine. Waiter,
please more drinks here.

DISSOLVE TO:

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 62.

75 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 75

A male orderly wheels Amara, who’s in a wheel chair into the

livingroom followed closely followed by doctor Esse and
another orderly. The Obis receive them.

76 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM 76

Amara is in a chair, stares out the open window, a vacant

look in her eyes. Her gaze doesn’t break. Her hands are
folded neatly on her lap.

A bird perches on the flower outside, she breaks into a

smile. Dr. Esse and the Obis, behind her by the open room
door discuss.

MR OBI
How’s she?

DR ESSE
Better. Hasn’t spoken yet. We think
her being back in familiar
surroundings will help.

MRS OBI
Doctor, thank you. God bless you.

DR ESSE
I’m just doing my job. You can go
in.

Mr Obi walks into the room. Mrs Obi looks in as she listens
to the doctor. Mr obi’s hand touches Amara’s shoulder.

She turns, looks at him and goes berserk. Doctor Esse runs
in, followed by two orderlies.

Their hands press her down to the bed, she screams still in
tears, her eyes transfixed in horror at Mr Obi’s face. Mrs
Obi cries at the door. Mr Obi consoles her.

DISSOLVE TO:

77 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 77

The electronics and anything of value are all gone. A

policeman covers with a white sheet a figure on the floor.
There is a second already covered up body on the floor. A
teary eyed Mrs Obi speaks to a plain clothed police man.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 63.

MRS OBI
I ..i came home this morning and...
(points to the floor) I
had vigil (she breaks
down)

DETECTIVE
Madam, it’s ok. The armed robbers
were very professional. Your
neighbors heard nothing and...

MRS OBI
He was working on a big case, do
you think they did this to him? My
sick daughter was home, they could
have...

DETECTIVE
It’s ok, madam. I assure you, we’ll
find them.

Mrs Obi nods her head in tears.

78 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - DAY 78

Mrs Obi is on the bed, Amara is on the floor between her legs
as she weaves her hair. Amara’s eyes are vacant.

MRS OBI
Daddy is gone . I’m so sorry I
wasn’t here for you. I should have
noticed it.

FLASHBACKS

Scene 55 - MR OBI MOVES FORWARD TO HUG AMARA, SCARED, SHE

SIDESTEPS HIM AND RUNS OUT.

Scene 77 - MRS OBI LOOKS IN AS SHE LISTENS TO THE DOCTOR. MR

OBI’S HAND TOUCHES AMARA’S SHOULDER. SHE TURNS, LOOKS AT HIM
AND GOES BERSERK.

Mrs obi still weaving the hair.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

I dug deeper.

FLASHBACK

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 64.

79 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - DAY 79

Sammy head bowed is with crying Mrs Obi.

MRS OBI
...please, you know you can tell me
anything. You and Amara are my
children. I raised you as much as
your mother did. Is there anything
I should know?

Sammy head still bowed is silent.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Samuel, please, I beg you, help me
under....

SAMMY
(looks up, tear stained
face)
She made me promise not to tell
you. It’s dad.

Mrs Obi looks confused as Samuel continues speaking

inaudibly.

Mrs Obi goes from disbelief to shock, to realization then

anger.

80 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - CONTINUOUS 80

Mrs obi’s hands tremble as she weaves.

MRS OBI
(angry)
How could he do this to you?

FLASHBACK

81 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - AFTERNOON 81

Mrs Obi is dressed up, scarf on her head.

MR OBI
When will you be back?

MRS OBI
Tomorrow morning. I need to pray
for Amara at the vigil. The
visiting pastor is powerful.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 65.

MR OBI
That’s good. I’ll take care of her
till you get back.

MRS OBI
Bello left for Kaduna this morning.

Mr obi rises.

MR OBI
Let me get the gate for you.

MRS OBI
Thanks dear but I have my key.
Please tell Fred when he comes that
I said thank you for his support.

82 EXT. COMPOUND - CONTINUOUS 82

Mrs Obi drives out. Mr Obi locks the gate behind her.

83 EXT. STREET - MOMENTS LATER 83

A taxi stops before a house. Mrs obi gets down, pays the taxi
man ,who drives away. She looks around as she fishes her keys
out her bag and opens the gate slowly and enters.

84 INT. THE OBI’S , LIVING ROOM - NIGHT 84

Mr Obi and Fred have a swell time with drinks and meat.

FRED
(bites into meat)
Has she said anything?

Mr obi shakes his head.

MR OBI
I miss my daughter.

FRED
She’ll be fine. Relax nwo...

The door barges open, two heavily armed masked men run in.

ROBBER 1
On your knees!

Fred and Mr obi get down, they plead. The robbers have a gun
pointed at each of them. Mrs Obi enters.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 66.

MR OBI
Please don’t hurt my wife.

ROBBER 1
Shut up!

Mrs Obi sits down calmly.

MRS OBI
(to her husband)
What did you do to Amara?

He’s silent. She rises fast, grabs a gun from one of the
robbers and points it at him.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

Answer me or I swear to God, I'll
kill you.

MR OBI
Ada, calm down before...

She shoots his right thigh, it only grazes him. The guns have
silencers, no sound.

FRED
Chineke!

MRS OBI
Answer me!

MR OBI
You weren’t giving me sex.

MRS OBI
It’s now my fault that you raped
our daughter, your thirteen year
old daughter over and...

MR OBI
It’s Fred. He told me to do it.

FRED
Did i force you?

MRS OBI
I always told you he was evil,
didn’t i?

Mr Obi nods his head frantically.

MRS OBI (CONT’D)

You want to know why we weren’t
having sex?
(MORE)

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 67.
MRS OBI (CONT’D)
Seven miscarriages after Amara and
all you think about is sex. I was
tired of going through the pain.
Your sperm is cursed.

FRED
Evil woman!

Mrs obi shoots him straight in the heart. Mr obi scared

shitless, watches his friend die.

MR OBI
Ada, I'm so sorry. I don’t know
what came over...

MRS OBI
How many times ?

MR OBI
I can’t remember...the whole week
you went for vigil.

MRS OBI
You disgust me! That girl calls you
father! She loves you! Your own
blood!!!

MR OBI
(crying)
I’m sorry. It’s the dev...

MRS OBI
(calmly)
Did you push her down the stairs?

MR OBI
Ada, what would God think about
this?

MRS OBI
Says the man who raped his daughter
over and over.
(strikes his temple with
the butt of the gun)
Answer me!

MR OBI
I came home early and....

Mrs Obi presses the gun to his head.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 68.

MRS OBI
Don’t lie to me again. Nonso,
you’re never early for and to
anything. Did you push her down the
stairs?!!

MR OBI
Beat her.

The gun clicks as she releases the catch/safe.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Ada, think about what you’re doing.
You could go to jail for this. We
can work this out.

MRS OBI
Can you fix her? Can you bring my
angel back?

MR OBI
I’m sorry.

She takes the gun away. He pants relieved. She hands the gun
back to the robber.

MRS OBI
(points at Fred)
Dump his body.

ROBBER 2
I have a plan but we have to get
rid of your husband. He’ll tell the
police on us.

MR OBI
Ada please, I won’t. I’ll keep
quiet. This never happened.

She nods her head once at the robber. She turns to leave,
backs them.

MR OBI (CONT’D)
Ada I'm sorry. Don’t leave. I
love...

The robber shoots him in the head, he falls silent, blood

seeps out onto the floor.

85 INT. THE OBI’S , AMARA’S ROOM - CONTINUOUS 85

Mrs Obi is in tears. Tears stream down Amara’s face.

Written by FRANCES OKEKE

 DADDY'S PRINCESS 69.

MRS OBI
I’m sorry baby. It’s all my fault.
He’ll never hurt you again. I
promise you , no one will. I’ll
always be here for....

Amara turns around fast and hugs her. They cry together.

FADE TO BLACK.
THE END

Written by FRANCES OKEKE