Over the years, Nollywood has been subjected to death of stars however in just the 2nd quarter of 2024, 7 actors has been confirmed dead already. Just yesterday Wednesday 10th April, the industry was thrown into another mourning as popular star, Junior Pope and three other unknown stars drowned on their way back from a movie shoot.
Nollywood producer, Stanley made the news known on his Instagram Live as he noted how they did their possible to ensure he lived. He said, “He’s confirmed dead. It’s well. We have tried all we could”.
On his Instagram story, Stanley reiterated that the movie star is finally gone.
Read Also: Junior Pope Biography, Family, Early Life and Cause of Death
Here is a full list of Nollywood actors who have died this year:
Olofa Ina
Veteran Yoruba actor Deji Aderemi, popularly known as Olofa Ina, died on Thursday, January 4. He died at the age of 73.
According to reports, the thespian died of cancer in Lagos State.
Ethel Ekpe
Veteran actress, Ethel Ekpe, who adorned the Nigerian entertainment screen for years, died on Wednesday, February 7, in Lagos State.
Ekpe is well known for playing the role of ‘Segi’ on the Nigerian Television Authority sitcom, ‘Basi and Company’. She died after a long battle with cancer.
Sisi Quadri
Yoruba Nollywood actor, Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri died on March 1, at the age of 44.
Oyebamiji celebrated his 44th birthday on December 25, 2023.
His death was announced by some of his colleagues in the Yoruba movie industry.
Announcing his death, Nollywood actress, Abiola Bayo wrote on her verified Instagram handle, “You will be greatly missed, Sisi Quadri. May your soul rest in perfect peace.”
Another actor, Tunde Yusuf who posted his (Sisi Quadri) picture said, “Everything in the world is according to the will of Allah. From Allah we have come and unto Him we shall return. May God bless, rest your soul, bro.”
Mr. Ibu
A day after Sisi Quadri’s demise, the news of the passing of comedic actor, John Okafor, popular as Mr Ibu broke out.
The actor, renowned for his comedic roles, died at the age of 62. It plunged fans and colleagues into mourning.
Nigerians acknowledge Mr. Ibu for his talent and unwavering strength amidst personal health challenges.
His contribution to Nollywood’s quintessential comedic figures is destined to endure as an individual. He wields large influence over the nation’s cultural and entertainment space.
Amaechi Muonagor
Three weeks after losing one of its comic actors to the pang of death, the Nigerian movie industry lost yet another veteran actor, Amaechi Muonagor, to the cold hands of death.
Muonagor died on Sunday, March 24, after battling kidney disease for a long time.
This came a few days after a viral video in which he solicited financial assistance from Nigerians to enable him to travel abroad for a kidney transplant.
Muonagor appeared in dozens of films, including Aki and Paw Paw. It is one of his most famous roles, where he played the father of two mischief-making, exuberant teenagers.
Aderounmu Adejumoke
Nollywood actress, Adejumoke Oreoluwa Aderounmu, popularly known for her role as ‘Esther’ in popular TV series Jenifa’s Diary, died on Sunday, March 7.
Adeola Aderounmu, the brother of the actress, announced her passing through his Instagram story on Sunday.
Aderounmu started her professional acting career in the movie “Arugba,” produced by Tunde Kelani in 2008, starring alongside Bukky Wright, Bukola Awoyemi, and Segun Adefila.