Ezego—the self-styled “King of Money. full life story

 In the 1990s, few names rang out in Nigeria’s pop culture like Ezego—the self-styled “King of Money.” Born Victor Nnamdi Okafor in 1964 in Ihiala, Anambra State, Ezego rose from a troubled youth to become one of the most flamboyant millionaires of his time.

Based in Lagos, he ran the Ezego Shopping Complex, which dealt in electronics and luxury items. His fleet of cars—Limousines, Mercedes Benzes, and Rolls-Royces—lined the streets of Allen Avenue. He was barely in his 30s but lived like a mogul twice his age. Tales of his wealth and generosity spread fast, making him a legend among the youth and a mystery to many.

But Ezego’s rise was as swift as his fall. On 25 December 1999, while driving one of his expensive cars from Lagos to his hometown for Christmas, he lost control of the vehicle near Asaba. He died from injuries later that day.

He was just 35.

His sudden death sparked widespread speculation—some called it karma, others whispered of spiritual retribution. Whatever the truth, Ezego’s life became a cautionary tale of wealth, pride, and mortality.