Iyke Bede
Twenty-five years after its debut, Nollywood motion basic ‘Issakaba’ is ready to return to the large display with a fifth instalment within the franchise, ‘Issakaba: The Return’, bringing again a few of the actors who helped set up the unique movie’s place in Nigerian film historical past.
The new manufacturing sees veteran actor Sam Dede reprise his function as Ebube. (*25*) proven throughout the press screening reveal his character being compelled by the religious forces that govern the group’s operations and code of ethics. Dede can also be joined by one other member of the unique solid, Chiwetalu Agu, in addition to different actors who performed minor roles as members of the Issakaba group.
Their return reunites acquainted faces from the 2001 movie, which drew inspiration from occasions surrounding the Bakassi Boys and their confrontation with prison parts in components of south-eastern Nigeria.
The newest movie, distributed by Blue Pictures, additionally introduces a brand new era of actors, together with Chidi Mokeme, whose commanding display presence and historical past of taking part in formidable villains convey a special dimension to the manufacturing. Other solid members embrace Iyabo Ojo, Regina Daniels, Alex Osifo, Charles Okafor and Nosa Rex, amongst others.
Directed by Lancelot Imasuen, who additionally directed the unique movie, ‘Issakaba: The Return’ revisits the story in opposition to the backdrop of Nigeria’s up to date safety challenges.
Explaining the motivation behind the mission, Imasuen mentioned the return was not merely an try to revive an outdated Nollywood favorite.
“‘The Return’ is about taking a story from 2001 and placing it in the Nigeria of 2026. The Nigeria that a new generation knows. Nigeria of new forms of crime, new technologies, new security challenges, new fears and, hopefully, new solutions,” he mentioned. The filmmaker mentioned the unique manufacturing was conceived as a mirrored image of a society scuffling with violent crime and the constraints of typical safety constructions.
“The original ‘Issakaba’ asked what happens when ordinary people decide they can no longer remain helpless in the face of insecurity. Today, Nigeria must ask a broader question: After 25 years, what have we learnt about keeping our people safe?” Imasuen concluded.
‘Issakaba: The Return’ is scheduled to open in cinemas nationwide on November 13, 2026.
