LAGOS, Nigeria … Nollywood veteran actor Sam Dede is set to return to one of his most iconic roles as the classic Nigerian action film Issakaba makes a comeback 25 years after the original movie became a major title of the home-video era.
The new film, titled Issakaba: The Return, will see Sam Dede reprise his famous character, Ebube Issakaba, as the story returns with a new battle against crime, darkness and insecurity.
Dede announced the return of the franchise on social media, renewing excitement among fans who remember his memorable portrayal of Ebube in the original Issakaba.
The sequel is scheduled to hit cinemas nationwide on November 13, 2026, marking 25 years since the original Issakaba was released in 2001.
The new production is directed by Lancelot Imasuen, the filmmaker who directed and produced the original Issakaba. The sequel was filmed in Asaba, Delta State, and brings together veteran actors and a new generation of Nollywood stars.
The cast includes Chidi Mokeme, Iyabo Ojo, Regina Daniels, Alex Osifo, Charles Okafor, Nosa Rex, Mark Angel and Phyna, among others.
The original Issakaba was inspired by the activities of the Bakassi Boys, a grassroots vigilante group that emerged in Nigeria’s South-East. The film blended action, horror and traditional mysticism while following Ebube and the Issakaba Boys as they confronted criminal elements threatening their community.
Twenty-five years later, Issakaba: The Return is expected to introduce a new generation of viewers to the franchise while reconnecting older fans with one of Sam Dede’s most recognised Nollywood characters.
According to reports surrounding the sequel, the new story will see Ebube confront a more sophisticated wave of crime and insecurity, giving the returning character a new challenge while maintaining the action-driven identity associated with the original film.
The return of Issakaba also highlights the growing trend of Nollywood revisiting popular stories and characters from previous generations, while combining established actors with younger talents.
For fans who grew up watching Sam Dede as Ebube, the November cinema release is expected to be a major nostalgic moment, while younger audiences will get an opportunity to experience the franchise on the big screen.
With Issakaba: The Return scheduled for November 13, 2026, all eyes are now on the cinema release as Nollywood prepares to welcome back one of its most recognizable action franchises.
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