Chief Pericoma Mezuo Okoye, also known as the "Lion of Africa," was a highly respected figure in Nigeria. He had many titles such as "Arusi Makaja 1 of Arondizuogu," "Arusi izuogu na iheme," and "Igwe Inyikiriputu." Born in 1948, Okoye had a fascinating life that revolved around music, tradition, and mysticism. He was not only a singer and songwriter but also served as the prime minister of the Arondizuogu community in Imo state.

Pericoma Okoye

Early Life

Pericoma Okoye grew up in Arondizuogu, a community in Imo State, Nigeria, known for its vibrant Igbo culture and traditions. This community encompasses three local government areas: Ideato North, Okigwe, and Onuimo. 

According to the biographical movie "Lion of Africa" about Okoye's life, something extraordinary happened when he was a child. While playing with his friends in the forest, he mysteriously disappeared. Many years went by before he resurfaced as a teenager, possessing a range of supernatural abilities.

Prime Minister

Until his death in 2017, Okoye held the position of prime minister in the Arondizuogu community, located in Imo State. He was a highly influential and charismatic leader who made significant contributions to the development and preservation of the community's rich cultural heritage.

Music Style

Okoye's music was a special combination of the oral traditions, culture, and proverbs of the Igbo people. Through his songs, he brought to life the vibrant tapestry of Igbo culture and heritage, which deeply resonated with the community.

Discography

During his life, Okoye created a wide range of music that beautifully expressed the culture, proverbs, and traditions of the Igbo people. Through his songs, he brought the vibrant essence of Igbo culture to life, inspiring and educating generations about their rich heritage. His music remains a source of inspiration and knowledge for people even today.

Some of his songs include 

1. Akuko Adi Nkota 1

2. Awirigidi 2002

3. Ekere Mgba

4. Ogba Aghara 1990

5. ODERIGWUGWU | Omenana n' ese okwu

6. Eze Nwe Obodo

7. Onye Egbuna Ibeya

8. Omenana Ndi

9. Ikeji Festival 77 (Ozor Izuogu)

10. Ahia Nne Na Umu

11. Ode Jin Jin (Obiara Egbu anyi &...)

12. Uto Nti 88 (IKEJI 1988)

13. Ebube Agu (Ekere Mgba Vol. 2)

14. Izu Kamma Na Nneji

15. Aka Na Esu Ogwu

16. Things Fall Apart (Pericoma Okoye and Dr. Dozie Ikedife)

Family

Pericoma Okoye was a loving family man who had many children. One of his famous children is Azubuike Johnbosco Uwaodironyere Okoye, also known as Fenfe Pericoma. Pericoma Okoye's wife is Mrs. Pericoma Emmanuela Azubuike. She played an important part in his life, along with their children.

Is speed Darlington the son of Pericoma?

In 2017, Speed made a revelation about his family background. He shared that his father was Chief Pericoma Mezuo Okoye, a renowned folk singer who unfortunately passed away on February 16th, 2017. However, Speed also expressed his strong negative feelings towards his father, accusing him of committing acts of violence against those who upset him.

Acting Career

Apart from his music career, Okoye was also an actor. He appeared in a movie called "Lion Of Africa" together with the popular Nollywood actor, Pete Edochie. The movie was divided into two parts and told the story of Okoye's early life and his association with sorcery-related activities.

Pericoma Okoye as the Musical Sorcerer and Lion of Africa

Pericoma Okoye was not just known for his public image, but also for his deep faith and practice of Obeah, the traditional religion of the Igbo people. He was not only a famous musician but also a respected sorcerer. His title 'Arusi Makaja' means 'deity' in English, which suggests his spiritual strength.

There were many stories about his supernatural abilities in Nigerian news. One of the most talked-about incidents was in Anambra state, where he reportedly stopped three tax collectors in their tracks when they questioned his tax records. He also won many times in the Ito-Ebule competition during the Ikeji festival, which earned him the nickname “Lion of Africa”.

Okoye had a major part in the annual Ikeji festival in his local community every April. This festival attracted visitors from all over the world, which helped Nigeria's foreign income.

Chief Pericoma Okoye died on February 16, 2017. He left a powerful legacy that continues to motivate the people of Nigeria and the entire world.