Omovo is a young Nigerian boy living in an unnamed village with his father during the country's civil war. He spends his days sitting by the windowsill, observing the people who pass by his home. Driven by a child's natural curiosity, he actively tries to piece together the events happening around him. He demonstrates early independence by venturing out to investigate local rumors himself rather than instantly trusting the word of authority figures.

Omovo's father is a working-class man doing his best to raise his son in a war-torn country. He wears a shabby coat to work but still manages to give Omovo a small allowance. He expresses frustration over the ongoing conflict and relies on an old German radio to track the news. He holds traditional beliefs, performing daily prayers and offerings to his ancestors before leaving the house.

The three anonymous military men serve as an impersonal, dominating force in Omovo's village. They spend their days lounging at the local bar, drinking palm-wine, and playing draughts. Instead of conducting formal investigations, they rely on bribing local children with money to gather information about perceived enemies. Their casual demeanor masks the severe power they hold over the civilian population.

A mysterious, unnamed woman who walks past Omovo's house every day wearing a black cloth over her head. The village children spread supernatural rumors about her, claiming she lacks a shadow and floats above the ground. She moves silently and purposefully toward the forest encampments, carrying a red basket of supplies. Her identity remains closely guarded, making her a target of intense suspicion from the local military presence.