At the heydays of television series and local content production in Nigeria, one comedy series obviously stood out from the rest. The New Masquerade, a comedy series, had many viewers’ eyes always glued on the television screen every time it aired.
From the very funny and informed characters, the comic story lines, its family and moral centeredness, the message to the stage craft the characters brought to bear in their performances, the New Masquerade, was worth the time, and stress of many who had to watch even in their neighbour’s house on black and white television, at a time when colour TV was luxury.
However, the comic TV series was a must-watch because of the charisma of Chief Zebrudaya Okoroigwe Nwogbo, alias 4.30, the lead character, who many still do not know by his real name; Chika Okpala. The popular comedian who hails from Nnobi in Anambra State together with Ovuleria, his wife in the TV series, sought to set moral standard for viewers using his family as example.
In the TV comedy series which aired on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) from 1983-1993, Chika Okpala portrayed Chief Zebrudaya as a man of character who stands firm on the truth. He was a role model who everybody admires and looks forward to seeing and meeting beyond the TV screen.
Chief Zebrudaya never disappointed anybody who came across him, he had an open mind, always wanted the best for the people, the best in every home, the best in every nation, the best in every profession and he also wanted to enjoy the best of life.
These virtues were among the things that endeared Zebrudaya to millions of fans across Nigeria and made the New Masquerade a must-watch while it aired.
The role model he played in the TV series also won him popularity beyond viewers. Many corporate organisations offered him opportunities, especially ambassador of their products and anchor of their events, talk shows among others.
Chief Zebrudaya is ambassador of lepers in Nigeria, ambassador of Malaria in Nigeria, ambassador of National Open University of Nigeria, among others.
Of course, Chief Zebrudaya has won several awards in recognition of his roles and contributions to the development of the Nigerian film industry.
At 67 years, the pioneer comedian may not be expecting awards, rather goodtime with his grand children. But on March 4, 2017, the Nnobi Anambra State born comedian received what seemed the highest industry related honour of his life. Chief Zebrudaya or rather Chika Okpala won the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) 2017 Industry Merit Award; an award which include a brand new SUV from GAC.
Chief Zebrudaya was recognized for his efforts toward the development of the entertainment industry in Nigeria; an award won in the past by the likes of Pete Edochie, and Olu Jacobs.
“I am happy about the award from AMVCA organizers. I feel very happy because I thought everything is over when they gave me the award. I am happy about the gift of a Chinese made GAC SUV. I so much appreciate the award and the car. I appreciate it that a Chinese car manufacturing company would want me to test-run their car as it were. As an actor who is a Nigerian by nationality, at least, I appreciate the award and the car. They are great honours to me”, Chief Zebrudaya said in a comic way while receiving his award.
He expressed optimism for a bright future for the younger generation in the entertainment industry, urging them be focused. “Youth, you have a bright future. Continue to do what you are doing”, he urged them.
However, Chief Zebrudaya is not retired; like wine, the older the better. The ace comedian is till featuring in blockbuster Nollywood movies. He put up a stellar performance in Phone Swap and is ready to go on set for more movie shots.
Chief Zebrudaya is not tired yet.
OBINNA EMELIKE
