In 2024, the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, has sadly seen the loss of several prominent actors. Here are ten actors who have unfortunately passed away.
1. Deji Aderemi: Yoruba actor Deji Aderemi, popularly known as Olofa Ina, died on January 4th at the age of 73 following a struggle with cancer. The actor was well-known for his performances in various Nollywood films and Yoruba soap operas, and he passed away in Lagos State.
2. Ethel Ekpe: The talented actress Ethel Ekpe, celebrated for her captivating performances, tragically passed away on February 7th in Sacramento, California. She was 60 years old when she lost her battle with cancer.
3. Sisi Quadri: On March 1st, Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, widely known as Sisi Quadri, died at the age of 44 following a short illness. His colleagues in the Yoruba film industry announced his death across several social media platforms.
4. Mr. Ibu: Celebrated Nollywood actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, passed away on March 2nd at the age of 62. Reports indicate that his death was due to cardiac arrest.
5. Amaechi Muonagor: The untimely passing of Amaechi Muonagor, a cherished figure in the Nigerian film industry, was deeply felt by many following his death on March 24th. He succumbed to a prolonged struggle with kidney disease. At the age of 61, the actor left behind a wife and four children.
6. Adejumoke Aderounmu: The Nigerian actress Adejumoke Aderounmu, best known for her role as ‘Esther’ in the popular television series Jenifa’s Diary, sadly passed away on April 6th at the age of 40. Her brother, Adeola Aderounmu, shared the heartbreaking news on Instagram. The cause of her death has not yet been revealed.
7. Saratu Gidado: Renowned actress Saratu Gidado, a prominent figure in the Kannywood film industry, passed away peacefully in her sleep on April 9th at the age of 56. According to her family, she died at her residence in Kano shortly after having her pre-dawn meal (Sahur) before starting the Ramadan fast.
8. Junior Pope Odonwodo: The film industry is grieving the loss of well-known Nollywood actor Junior Pope, who sadly drowned in a boating accident after wrapping up a movie shoot. The president of AGN has confirmed that despite efforts to revive him, they were ultimately unsuccessful, leading to his premature passing on April 10th. At the age of 39, he is survived by his wife and three sons.
9. Nollywood actress and movie producer, Sharon Okpamen, sadly passed away on Saturday, nearly a month after giving birth to her second child. According to reports, she had fallen into a coma following childbirth and ultimately succumbed to her condition. The news of her demise was confirmed by her colleague, Stanley Ontop, via an Instagram post on August 24, 2024.
10. Charles Olumo ‘Agbako’: Veteran Nigerian actor, Charles Olumo Sanyaolu, popularly known as Agbako, passed away on October 31st, 2024, at the remarkable age of 101. As the oldest actor in Nigeria’s film industry, he left an indelible mark on the country’s cultural heritage. The news of his demise was confirmed by fellow actor Jide Kosoko, sparking an outpouring of tributes and condolences from the film community, colleagues, and fans.
Drop your thoughts on the comment section.