By Olamide Jasanya
Family members at the burial ceremony Photo: linda ikeji
The body of late Nollywood actor, Justus Esiri has been laid to rest. He was buried on Friday, April 12, 2013 in his home town, Oria Abraka, Delta State, a ceremony which was well attended by his family members, fans and colleagues.
His children, dressed in blue lace and wine wrappers with pink coral beads, supported their mother, Omiete to bid farewell to the late veteran actor.
Also in attendance were popular Nollywood acts like Richard Mofe Damijo, Kanayo O Kanayo, Bob Manuel who helped to add colour to the event.
Speaking about the event, president of the Actors’ Guild, Ibinabo Fiberesima said though she could not attend the party as she had an health emergency, she was pleased with the way it turned out and thanked the BOT members who were present to represent the guild.
The PRO of the guild, Frank Dallas spoke in a similar tone, adding that Esiri deserved every honour he got. When our correspondent called to speak with Sidney Esiri (Dr Sid) he said ‘I’m sorry I can’t talk now. I am in the middle of something important‘.
Few days before the burial, actors including Rita Dominic, Kate Henshaw, Chioma Chukwuka, Richard Mofe Damijo, Olu Jacobs and the deceased’s family members gathered at the O’Jez restaurant, Surulere, in Lagos, for the wake keep organised in the late actor’s honour.
Until his death, Esiri (MON) was a veteran actor having starred in over 70 movies and TV series including the popular Village Headmaster which fetched him a national fame. He received numerous awards and honours and has been posthumously nominated in the Best Actor category of the 2013 AMAA awards.
Esiri died on Tuesday, February 19, 2013 due to complications from diabetes. He is survived by his widow Omiete and six children including singer Dr Sid and photographer, George Esiri