Chief Chika Okpala MFR is a Nigerian actor and comedian. He is popularly known as Chief Zebrudaya, a sobriquet he got from his role in a TV comedy series, New Masquerade, which aired from 1976 to 1993.
He is considered a veteran in the entertainment industry because of his consistency and contributions. In recognition of his impact, he was honoured in 2017 with the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA), presented by MultiChoice through Africa Magic, for lifetime contribution to the development of African cinema.
Okpala became popular playing “Chief Zebrudaya alias 4.30” in the popular 80s sitcom New Masquerade. His character portrays a pompous, half-educated champion of the elite who spoke in a characteristic blend of wrong grammar and witty proverbs. The sitcom uses humour to navigate complex societal issues and was a cultural touchstone that helped people with their everyday lives.
Okpala is married to Lizzy Evoeme and has two children, both of whom are married and have children of their own. Although he initially had three children, he lost his eldest daughter. His son, Henry Okpala, is married and has a daughter. He lives and works in Nigeria. There were reports that Okpala had lost his wife, but they turned out to be rumours.
The “Masquerade” sitcom, with its original casts (Zebrudaya, Jegede, Ovularia, Akpeno,Clarusu Mbojikwe, and of course, it’s creator , Giringory Akabogu) began as far back as 1976 or 1977. It only metamorphosed into “New Masquerade” in the 80’s.
Again, Zebrudaya’s “real” wife (not TV wife), could not have been “Lizzy Evoeme”, (now demised) the real name of his “TV” wife, Ovularia, alias G4″.
Chief Chika Okpala aka Zebrudaya
