Abdulrasheed Bello returns to the big screen after his co-producer role on She Must Be Obeyed in 2023 and Director role in Omo Ghetto (2020). The feature grossed ₦636.1 million and became one of the top-grossing Nigerian films of all time. And now his latest project, Hakeem – Seeking Justice, gives hope for the re-emergence of Nollywood’s action genre. It hits a very timely and disturbing occurrence without drifting away from the conventions that tie up the targeted genre.

A Story Fueled by Pain and Anguish, Deeply Relatable

Ex-military officer Hakeem returns home to find his entire family brutally murdered. Grief and rage drive him on a relentless quest for revenge. As the trail of blood deepens, he uncovers a far-reaching conspiracy—one more powerful than he imagined and terrifyingly close to home.

What begins as a supposed victory over a health crisis in his family—and a puzzling reunion with an old acquaintance—quickly spirals into a rabbit hole from his past. Deyemi Okanlawon plays Hakeem with conviction, and his character’s loss unearths the harsh reality of Abuja’s growing insecurity. What starts as a personal vendetta soon evolves into a crusade to dismantle criminal gangs and organ trafficking syndicates.

Meanwhile, Detective Chioma (Chioma Akpotha) and Detective Leo (Funky Mallam) are left puzzled by a case that consistently challenges their theories. Though they edge closer to the truth behind the rising massacres and ritual-like killings, they remain largely unaware. Still, in their sincere pursuit of justice, they form an unlikely alliance with a fame-hungry reporter who helps them piece together the case.

At first, Hakeem believes his family’s death is a consequence of his past mistakes. But he later discovers they were targeted by the same doctor they once trusted with their lives. `His decision to act, though deeply personal, ultimately disrupts the cycle of innocent bloodshed. In the end, he seeks justice—even if it means risking his life.

True to Its Action Conventions, But Uneven as a Drama

Hakeem – Seeking Justice confidently embraces the hallmarks of the action genre. With a clear narrative arc, a driven protagonist, and fast-paced storytelling, it avoids drawn-out dialogue and leans into a moody, dark visual tone. The film delivers just the right amount of action, supported by well-choreographed fight sequences that enhance the narrative. It’s an enjoyable action film, with fight scenes that not only entertain but also carry emotional weight—from the family’s desperation to the miraculous twist, and ultimately, the pursuit of vengeance leading to surrender.

A standout strength is how the film handles multiple antagonists. Hakeem faces several foes—some united against him—yet the plot maintains clarity on who’s who and their respective roles. This is a notable accomplishment in a genre that often becomes confusing with too many moving parts.

Still, while the action works, the dramatic elements occasionally fall flat. A story rooted in organ trafficking needs deeper, more unsettling portrayals. For example, Dr. Osita (Gabriel Afolayan), a central figure in the trafficking ring, is never shown harvesting organs.

One such scene could have added a chilling layer and intensified the horror that action thrillers often aim for. Similarly, Senator Yahaya (Ali Nuhu), the apparent mastermind, is never seen leading the syndicate. His villainy is built only on the testimony of others and a few suspicious scenes. A more explicit portrayal would have added depth, menace, and emotional weight to his character.

There’s also an unresolved plot point around Hakeem’s health condition. Earlier in the film, he’s shown struggling with mobility due to pain, yet this is never addressed again. One would expect a reveal that Dr. Osita fabricated the diagnosis. But with all the intense fighting and no visible signs of him using medication, it begs the question: was vengeance alone enough to drive him?

Excellent Performances But a Shaky Support That Is Integral

Hakeem – Seeking Justice features an array of well acclaimed actors in the industry like; Femi Branch, Gabriel Afolayan, Zubby Michael, Ali Nuhu Eso Dike and Bolanle Ninalowo. And then growing faces like Regina Daniels, Liquorose, Skales, Boma Apkore, White Money, Modola Oshifuwa and Kemi Ikuseedun (Mummy Wa).

A standout performance would be Okanlawon’s portrayal of Hakeem. With his well executed solo fight scenes, he also had a visible connection with the characters plight and the driving force for his anger. His relation with other supporting cast members also helped save weak deliveries 

As a villain, Eso Dike fails to fully submerge into the role. This further drips into Whitemoney’s unnecessary comic inclusion at the point of death. And then an highly unnecessary cameo of Abdulrasheed Bello JJC being a guest on a radio station, giving a disconnect that the audience might not recover from.

Liquorose also delivered a commendable performance playing the selfish journalist that gave the story the added twist it needed; however, her truly portraying the stone-cold and fame induced personality became really remarkable to watch. This signals her readiness for more demanding and stronger roles.

Other acts like Branch, Afolayan, Akpotha and Nuhu also deliver an impressive performance that still allows the growing faces to shine.

Visually Impressive With a Few Technical Stumbles

With Ola Cardoso behind the camera, the film benefits from strong cinematography that enhances the storytelling. One of the most compelling sequences is the car chase between Okolawan’s character and Eso Dike toward the climax. The drifting stunts and camera angles build real tension. Another visually engaging scene features Skales navigating a slum in a gripping chase. The camera captures his movements, facial expressions, and even his pursuer’s point of view with great technique.

The sound and music also contribute effectively to the film’s tone, enhancing anticipation and fear where necessary. However, the final music score—an original by Deyemi Okanlawon—undercuts the emotional momentum. It raises questions: was this a bid to showcase musical range or a misplaced attempt at personal branding? Regardless, it weakens the film’s ending. Nollywood must begin to treat final scenes with as much care as the opening.

While the Hakeem – Seeking Justice makes excellent use of its locations, some special effects during explosive scenes fall short. For example, when Hakkem blows up a police car, the flames dissipate too quickly, even before the characters approach. Likewise, the blast from the bomb planted on Dr. Osita seems unrealistic, leaving the building intact despite its intensity. These inconsistencies slightly diminish the overall impact.

Final Thoughts

The quiet exchange at the press briefing between Liquorose’s character and others subtly echoes the real-life case of a Nigerian senator involved in organ trafficking. It also reflects the growing insecurity plaguing Abuja. But the film leaves us wondering: will this scene spark meaningful dialogue, or remain just another dramatic device?

Liquorose portrays a self-centered journalist—a portrayal that mirrors a rising trend in Nollywood. Though seemingly minor, it prompts a serious question: why is this image of the journalist becoming so common? Considering selflessness is a core trait of good journalism, the depiction feels misinformed and troubling.

It was also interesting to see content creators like Modola Oshifuwa and Kemi Ikuseedun (Mummy Wa) actually act as opposed to just replicating their online characters.

Verdict

Hakeem – Seeking Justice is a strong addition to Nollywood’s action library. It proves that the industry is capable of learning from its missteps and delivering engaging, high-stakes storytelling. While it nails the action, it stumbles slightly in its dramatic depth.

Rating: 3.8/5