Leading performers in the Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, have passed away prematurely in a number of cases in 2024. These five actors tragically died this year:
1. Olofa Ina: Deji Aderemi, a distinguished Yoruba actor known as Olofa Ina, died on January 4th at the age of 73. The actor was revealed to have succumbed to cancer in Lagos State.
2. Ethel Ekpe: Ethel Ekpe, a veteran actress who captivated audiences for years, passed away on February 7th in Lagos State. She was 73 and had been diagnosed with cancer for an extended period.
3. Sisi Quadri: Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri, died on March 1st at the age of 44. His colleagues in the Yoruba movie industry announced his demise on social media.
4. Mr. Ibu: The news of the passing of John Okafor, who was popularly known as Mr. Ibu, broke out on March 2nd. He was 62 years old at the time of his death which was as a result of cardiac arrest.
5. Amaechi Muonagor: After losing another comic actor, Amaechi Muonagor, to death on March 24th, the Nigerian movie industry mourned yet another loss. Muonagor had been battling kidney disease for an extended period. His passing came shortly after a viral video in which he requested financial assistance for a kidney transplant.
The year 2024 has been challenging for Nollywood, as it faced a series of untimely losses of prominent actors. These talented individuals left behind a rich legacy in the world of cinema. Their contributions will continue to inspire future generations of actors and filmmakers.
