After 25 Years, Nollywood Makes Big Move With Return of Legendary ‘Issakaba’

According to Punch, November 14, 2026, Nollywood filmmaker Lancelot Imasuen has brought back one of Nigeria’s familiar action movie franchises, as ‘Issakaba: The Return’ makes its way to cinemas across the country, 25 years after the original film was released.

The director announced the nationwide cinema release in a post on his Instagram page on Friday, expressing excitement about the return of the movie franchise and encouraging fans to experience the new production on the big screen.

Describing the project as the return of a legend, Imasuen called on movie lovers to support the film by watching it in cinemas.

One of the major attractions of the sequel is the return of veteran actor Sam Dede, who reprises his role as Ebube, the leader of the Issakaba Boys.

The production also features a combination of established Nollywood stars and younger actors, reflecting the involvement of different generations of performers in the revived franchise.

Other members of the cast include Chidi Mokeme, Iyabo Ojo, Regina Daniels, Chiwetalu Agu, Alex Osifo, Charles Okafor, Nosa Rex and Mark Angel.

Imasuen, who directed the original film, also takes charge of the sequel, which revisits the fictional vigilante group while introducing its story to audiences against the backdrop of contemporary Nigerian society.

The original ‘Issakaba’ was released in 2001 and became associated with the activities of the Bakassi Boys, a vigilante group that emerged in south-eastern Nigeria in response to rising concerns about criminal activities.

Its storyline drew inspiration from the group’s activities, helping establish the film as one of Nollywood’s recognised action productions.

With Blue Pictures handling distribution, ‘Issakaba: The Return’ brings together familiar faces from the original franchise and newer performers, marking the return of a film series that left a lasting impression on Nigerian movie audiences.

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