Death, universally recognised, is an unavoidable aspect of the human experience, although its recurrence within specific demographic groups or professions can give rise to apprehension. This phenomenon becomes particularly notable when observed within a given age group or professional field.
The vibrant Nigerian film industry, known as Nollywood, renowned for its rich cultural tapestry and entertainment value, was faced with a wave of deaths of leading actors in the year 2024.
Over the past few years, Nigerians have found themselves in mourning after bidding farewell to many seasoned veterans and budding talents in the industry. It is a recurring phenomenon that has cast a shadow over the Nollywood landscape.
Sadly, the industry was once again forced to deal with the untimely demise of several talented individuals in the first few months of 2024. This loss has transcended age barriers and gender preferences, reverberating in the hearts of dedicated fans and industry peers alike.
As we honour their memory, it is imperative to reflect on the invaluable contributions they have made to the cultural landscape of Nigeria and beyond, shaping the collective consciousness of generations past and present.
The following is a list of Nollywood actors who passed away in 2024:
1. Olofa Ina
The veteran Yoruba actor Deji Aderemi, better known as Olofa Ina, died on Thursday 4 January 2024. He was 73 years old.
The actor died of cancer in Lagos State.
2. Ethel Ekpe
The veteran actress, Ethel Ekpe, who graced the Nigerian entertainment screen, died of cancer on Wednesday, February 7, 2024 in Lagos State.
There were reports that Ekpe, well known for playing the role of “Segi” in the Nigerian Television Authority sitcom, “Basi and Company”, died after battling cancer.
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3. Sisi Quadri
Yoruba Nollywood actor Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, better known as Sisi Quadri, died on 1 March 2024 at the age of 44.
He had celebrated his 44th birthday on 25 December 2023.
News of her death was announced by some of her colleagues in the Yoruba film industry.
On her Instagram account, Nollywood actress Abiola Bayo wrote: “We will miss you so much, Sisi Quadri. May your soul rest in perfect peace”.
Fellow actor Tunde Yusuf, who posted the photo of Sisi Quadri, said: “Everything in the world is according to Allah’s will, from Allah we have come and to Him we will return. May God bless you and may your soul rest in peace, my brother.
4. Mr Ibu
Only a day after the public learned of the death of Sisi Quadri, Nigerians were once again surprised by the news of the death of comic actor John Okafor, known as Mr Ibu.
Okafor, renowned for his comedic roles, died at the age of 62, plunging his fans and colleagues into mourning.
While the entertainment community is dealing with this sad event, many people are reflecting on Mr Ibu’s legacy, recognising him not only for the joy he brought into people’s homes, but also for his unwavering strength in the face of personal health problems.
Ibu’s legacy as a towering comic figure in Nollywood is destined to live on, symbolising the profound influence that one individual can have on a nation’s culture and entertainment.
