“Okey Bakassi Announces ₦5 Million Reward in Bid to Track Phone Thief at Private Football Match in Nigeria”
Veteran Nigerian comedian and actor Okey Bakassi has announced a ₦5 million reward for information that could lead to the identification and arrest of an individual accused of stealing mobile phones during a private football match. The incident has sparked renewed conversations around security at social and sporting gatherings in Nigeria.
According to details shared by the comedian, the theft occurred during a friendly football event attended by guests and participants, where several mobile phones reportedly went missing. Bakassi’s public offer of a cash reward is aimed at encouraging witnesses or individuals with relevant information to come forward and assist authorities in tracking down the suspect.
The development highlights growing concerns about petty theft and crowd security at informal sporting events, where limited surveillance and high attendance can create opportunities for criminal activity. While such matches are often organized for recreation and community engagement, incidents like this underscore the need for improved security awareness among organisers and attendees.
Okey Bakassi, known for his long standing influence in Nigeria’s entertainment industry and advocacy on social issues, has not issued further personal comments beyond the reward announcement. The situation has since generated discussion across social media platforms, with many Nigerians debating both the effectiveness and implications of private reward offers in criminal investigations.
The matter continues to draw attention as members of the public await further developments regarding the recovery of the stolen items and the identification of those responsible.

