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With a 78% score, Hakeem: Seeking Justice proves that Nollywood can blend action, suspense, and strong storytelling into a captivating cinema experience. From its Hollywood-grade poster to its unpredictable plot twists, the film stands out as one of the year’s notable action thrillers.
Directed by Abdulrasheed “JJC Skillz” Bello, the movie boasts a star-studded cast, including Ali Nuhu, Bolanle Ninalowo, Chioma Chukwuka, Deyemi Okanlawon, Gabriel Afolayan, Liquorose, Regina Daniels, Skales, White Money, and Zubby Michael.
Plot Overview
The film follows the story of Hakeem Balogun (Deyemi Okanlawon), an army captain whose life takes a devastating turn after a mission under his command ends with the loss of his entire team. Discharged from service, Hakeem becomes a taxi driver, struggling with severe back pain from his military years. Desperate to fund his surgery, he accepts a risky job offer — one that drags him into the dangerous underworld of organ trafficking and brutal gang wars.
What the Film Gets Right
The storytelling is well-crafted, with a plot that keeps audiences guessing until the end. The action sequences are energetic and well-choreographed, with an impressive use of heavy artillery and realistic sound effects.
A standout highlight is the sports car stunt — executed with such precision and flair that it could easily pass for a scene from a high-budget Hollywood production. Another unforgettable moment is the intense pump-action rifle scene, where Hakeem blows off a gang member’s head in a brief but shockingly realistic shot that had the cinema crowd reacting in unison.
Makeup and practical effects also shine, particularly in the scene where blood spurts from a doctor’s thigh after Hakeem’s knife attack. The final battle is visually striking, bathed in red lighting that mirrors the tone and look of the official movie poster, giving the climax an extra layer of cinematic flair.
Where the Story Misses the Mark
Liquorose brings energy to the role of Rebecca, a fearless journalist. However, her repeated ability to question police officers directly at crime scenes stretches credibility. In reality, Nigerian police rarely speak to the press on the spot, and inquiries are typically directed to official spokespersons. For those familiar with journalism in the country, this detail feels unrealistic — though it doesn’t take away from the film’s entertainment value.
Another less convincing moment is Femi Branch’s robbery scene. Under a barrage of bullets, his character takes time to shout a dramatic revenge threat at Hakeem and his men. In real-life circumstances, such a move would be reckless and suicidal. This moment appears inserted mainly to mislead viewers into suspecting him later in the plot, but it feels forced.
Performances That Stand Out
Deyemi Okanlawon delivers a commanding and emotional lead performance, carrying the weight of the film’s tension. Zubby Michael provides well-timed humor, offering moments of comic relief amid the intensity.
Ali Nuhu is convincing as a shrewd senator, while Chioma Chukwuka plays her detective role with poise. Eso Dike’s Tonero is both intimidating and amusing, capturing the balance of a dangerous yet laid-back character. Regina Daniels’ role is more subdued, leaving little lasting impression compared to the rest of the cast.
Final Verdict
Hakeem: Seeking Justice is a well-paced, adrenaline-filled Nollywood action drama with just enough surprises to keep audiences hooked. While it has a few unrealistic moments, its strengths in action design, stunt execution, and cast performances make it a solid watch.
Rating: 8.5/10 — and possibly higher on a second, more relaxed viewing.
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