The Issakaba Comeback: 25 Years Later, the Action Returns on November 13, 2026.

Issakaba is an anagram of Bakassi and draws inspiration from the real-life Bakassi boys.

They were a vigilante group that emerged in southeastern Nigeria in the late 1990s to combat crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, and murder.

In the original film, the Issakaba boys, led by Ebube, were brought in to confront armed robbers who were terrorizing their community. But this is not an ordinary fight against crime.

Instead, the characters are portrayed as being fortified with traditional charms and supernatural powers as they pursue their own form of justice.

That blend of action, culture, and supernatural storytelling helped make the franchise stand out.

Twenty-five years after the original Issakaba became one of Nollywood’s most recognized action films, the iconic franchise is set to return on November 13, 2026.

Furthermore, original star Sam Dede is reprising his role as Ebube, while filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen returns to direct a new chapter of the action-packed story.

A Classic Makes a Comeback

For audiences across West Africa who grew up watching Nollywood in the early 2000s, Issakaba is a name that carries memories.

Released in 2001, the action franchise quickly became one of the era’s most recognisable films, mixing crime, traditional beliefs, supernatural powers, and a relentless pursuit of justice.

Moreover, its popularity went beyond Nigeria, reaching audiences across West Africa, including Sierra Leone, where Nollywood films were a major part of television entertainment.

Now, 25 years later, the franchise is returning with a new phase, a fresh cast, and a different generation of energy, while holding on to some of the elements that made the original memorable.

Sam Dede Returns

Sam Dede on set for a movie shoot. Photo: Okay Naija

At the heart of the comeback is Sam Dede, returning as Ebube, the character that helped make him a familiar face among fans of the original.

Dede first teased the return of the franchise in an Instagram post dated January 27, 2024, writing: “ISSAKABA!!! The Myth returns.” 

He added:

“A RIVER DOES NOT FLOW THROUGH A FOREST WITHOUT BRINGING DOWN TREES. Men with evil minds lurk in the dark. But… JUSTICE IS MINE.”

Ultimately, his return gives the new production a direct connection to the story that audiences remember, while opening the door for a new generation to discover the character.

Familiar Names, Fresh Energy

A mix of established Nollywood stars and newer entertainers are to be featured in the movie.

A mix of established Nollywood stars and newer entertainers are featured in the movie.

The cast includes Chidi Mokeme, Iyabo Ojo, Baba Rex, Itele, Regina Daniels, Phyna, Mark Angel, and Sam Dede.

Because of this mix, the combination promises a different dynamic from the original, bringing together actors with strong followings across film, television, and social media.

While older fans will find nostalgia in the returning elements, younger audiences will likely discover a fresh identity in the new faces.

Lancelot Imasuen was involved in the original production; now, as he returns as director, the new Issakaba carries both history and expectation.

Therefore, after 25 years, the real question is whether the franchise can recreate the magic that made it a Nollywood classic while speaking to today’s audience.

One thing is certain: the myth is returning, the faces are changing, and the action is coming back.

November 13, 2026, is the date for the return of Issakaba.

WRITTEN BY ALISIOUS LIGURIE MATTHEW KONGO