"Top 10 Nigerian Actors We Don't Hear About Anymore: See What Happened to Them. Number 5 D1ed This Morning (Photos)."
23rd December, 2024
The Nigerian entertainment industry suffered a tremendous loss in 2024, with the deaths of several prominent figures who made significant contributions to Nollywood and the cultural landscape. From veteran actors like Chief Deji Akinremi, known as Olofa Ina, to the talented Quadri Oyebamiji, affectionately called Sisi Quadri, the industry bid farewell to legends whose works shaped the Nollywood we know today. This year saw the passing of other icons, including Mr. Ibu, Dimeji Ajibola, and many others, each leaving an indelible mark on Nigerian cinema, television, and theatre, and their legacies will continue to inspire generations to come.
Below is a list of 23 Nollywood stars who died in 2024.
1. Olofa Ina
Late actor Adedeji Aderemi Olofa Ina
On 4 January 2024, the death of veteran Nollywood actor, Chief Deji Akinremi, popularly known as “Olofa Ina,” was announced. He passed away at the age of 73.
Actor Saidi Balogun shared the somber news on Instagram, posting a tribute alongside the actor’s photo. He wrote, “Good Night Legend Chief Deji Akinremi (Olofa Ina) RIP.”
Before carving a niche in theatre, Chief Akinremi founded the Olofa Ina Theatre Group in 1972. He pioneered the staging of epic historical plays about Yoruba warlords, many of which were televised by Nigerian Television, Ibadan, in the 1970s.
His acclaimed works include “Ija Omode,” “Idaamu Otunba,” “Ewe Orun,” “Kabiyesi Olodumare,” “Mayegun,” “Ejo Ngboro,” and “Lisabi Agbongbo Akala.”
2. Sisi Quadri
Sisi Quadri
On 1 March 2024, the Yoruba film industry mourned the passing of actor Quadri Oyebamiji, affectionately known as “Sisi Quadri.”
Renowned for his versatility and wit, Sisi Quadri died after a prolonged illness, leaving a void in the hearts of fans and colleagues. He debuted in the 2002 movie “Koto Aye,” directed by the late Alhaji Ajileye.
3. Mr. Ibu
Mr. Ibu
A day after Sisi Quadri’s demise, Nollywood lost another legend, John Okafor, popularly known as “Mr. Ibu.” He passed away on 2 March 2024, following a cardiac arrest.
Emeka Rollas, the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), confirmed the news on Instagram. He wrote, “Sad day for Actors Guild of Nigeria. Mr. Ibu suffered cardiac arrest, according to his manager of 24 years, Mr Don Single Nwuzor. I announce with a deep sense of grief that Mr. Ibu didn’t make it. May his soul rest in peace.”
In October 2023, Mr. Ibu revealed he was battling a severe illness that threatened the amputation of one of his legs, which began during a movie shoot. He had appealed to fans and the public for prayers and financial support for his treatment.
Known for his comedic roles, Mr. Ibu starred in over 200 Nollywood films, including “Mr. Ibu” (2004), “Mr. Ibu in London” (2005), “Police Recruit” (2003), “9 Wives” (2005), “Ibu in Prison” (2006), and “Keziah” (2007).
4. Dimeji Ajibola
Ajibola
Dimeji Ajibola
Dimeji Ajibola, a renowned Nigerian filmmaker, passed away on November 3, 2024, at the age of 44, after battling an undisclosed illness.
Born on April 15, 1980, Ajibola was celebrated for his innovative contributions to Nollywood, particularly in integrating visual effects and technology into African cinema. He directed notable works such as the crime thriller series “Shanty Town” and the sci-fi film “Ratnik,” both of which received critical acclaim.
His passing is a significant loss to the Nigerian film industry, where he was esteemed for his visionary storytelling and dedication to advancing the art of filmmaking.
Charles Olumo “Agbako”
Charles Olumo aka Baba Agbako
Charles Olumo aka Baba Agbako
Alhaji Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, popularly known as Charles Olumo or “Agbako,” was a pioneering Nigerian actor renowned for his captivating performances in Yoruba-language films. Born in July 1923 in Abeokuta, Ogun State, he began his acting career in 1953 at a church in Lagos.
Olumo’s stage name, “Agbako,” meaning “fear,” became synonymous with his portrayal of formidable characters, especially villains, in numerous productions.
His career spanned over six decades, during which he became a beloved figure in the Yoruba film industry, known for his powerful portrayals of characters like chiefs and elders.
Beyond acting, Olumo was also skilled as an automobile technician, repairing bikes and other vehicles when not on stage.
He passed away on October 31, 2024, at the age of 101, leaving behind a legacy that significantly shaped Nollywood and inspired future generations of actors.
6. Mudashiru Olabiyi ‘Bobo B’
Nollywood
Mudashiru Olabiyi
Mudashiru Ayobami Olabiyi, popularly known as “Bobo B,” was a distinguished Nigerian actor and educator. Born in Ibadan, Oyo State, he began his career as a teacher in 1977, dedicating 16 years to education before transitioning to acting in 1993.
Olabiyi gained prominence in the Yoruba film industry with his debut film, “Ewolewo,” in 1994, and his breakout role in “Olaniyanu” in 1996. He served as the National Secretary of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) and was a former governor of the association in Oyo State. Olabiyi passed away on October 16, 2024, in Ibadan, after a brief illness.
7. Emmanuel France
Emmanuel France
Emmanuel France, a veteran Nollywood actor, was renowned for his roles in films such as “Domitilla” (1996), “The Curfew” (2021), and “Men of the Century (Hook or Crook)” (2024).
Born in Kano State, Nigeria, he was of Ghanaian descent and began his acting career in the 1980s, often portraying witch doctor roles.
France passed away on September 16, 2024, at the age of 84.
8. Big Larry
Big Larry
Big Larry, a Nollywood actor known for his impactful roles in the Nigerian film industry, passed away on September 13, 2024.
His colleague, Stanley Nwoke, announced his death on Instagram, though the cause remains undisclosed. Big Larry’s contributions to Nollywood were significant, and his passing is a notable loss to the entertainment community.
9. Shina Sanyaolu
Shina Sanyaolu
Shina Sanyaolu was a renowned Nigerian filmmaker and director, celebrated for his significant contributions to the Yoruba film industry. He was known for his exceptional directing skills and his contributions to numerous films, including “The Honourable,” “Two Wives,” and “Omo Olosan.”
His passing was confirmed on September 12, 2024, by Bolaji Amusan, President of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN).
The exact cause of his death remains undisclosed. Colleagues, including veteran actor Jide Kosoko, have lauded his unwavering support for the arts and his generosity within the industry.
10. Yusuf Olorungbebe
Late actor Yusuf Olorungbebe
Yusuf Olorungbebe was a respected Nigerian actor and production manager in the Yoruba film industry.
He was known for his dedication and contributions to Nollywood. Olorungbebe passed away on August 28, 2024, after battling a chronic ailment that left him on life support.
His death was announced by actress Foluke Daramola, who had previously sought financial assistance for his medical treatment.
11. Sharon Okpamen
Sharon Okpamen
Sharon Okpamen, born on February 16, 1989, in Abudu, Edo State, Nigeria, was a prominent Nollywood actress and film producer.
She began her acting career in 2010 with the film “Touch Not My Crown” and appeared in over 100 films, including her production “Night Hustlers.” Tragically, Sharon passed away on August 24, 2024, at age 35, following complications from childbirth.
12. Stella Ikwuegbu
Stella Ikwuegbu
Stella Ikwuegbu was a distinguished Nigerian actress celebrated for her motherly roles in Nollywood films. She began her acting career in 1990 and appeared in numerous movies, including “Spoiler,” “Ukwa,” “Sound of Love,” and “Holy Man.”
Beyond acting, she was a businesswoman and opened a restaurant called “The Film Bar” in Enugu.
Stella Ikwuegbu passed away on June 16, 2024, after battling leg cancer.
13. Sule Suebebe
Actor Sule Suebebe
Dayo Adewunmi, known professionally as Sule Suebebe, was a distinguished Nigerian actor celebrated for his roles in Yoruba-language films. Born in 1956, he began his acting career in the early 1980s and appeared in numerous films, including “Agbalagba,” “Omo Ghetto,” and “Omo Iya Osogbo.” Beyond acting, he was also a producer and director, contributing significantly to the growth of Nollywood.
Sule Suebebe passed away on June 12, 2024, at the age of 68, at an undisclosed hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State, after a prolonged illness. His death was confirmed by Pastor Ademola Amusan, a close friend who had been caring for him.
14. Reginald Ebere
Reginald Ebere
Reginald Ebere, a renowned Nigerian filmmaker, was celebrated for writing the 1999 Nollywood classic “Issakaba”. A director and screenwriter, he studied at the University of Jos and directed projects with The Script Factory.
In 2018, he suffered a stroke on set, leading to six years of health challenges. Ebere passed away on 26 May 2024, leaving an enduring legacy in Nollywood. His death deeply saddened the film industry.
15. Junior Pope
Jnr. Pope
Junior Pope Odonwodo, born on 7 May 1984 in Bamenda, Cameroon, was a prominent Nigerian actor known for his dynamic roles in Nollywood films such as “Wrong Initiation” (2018) and “Eye of the Eagle” (2013). He was married to Jennifer Awele Okpuno, with whom he had three children.
Tragically, on 10 April 2024, while traveling to a film set in Delta State, Nigeria, Odonwodo drowned after a boat he was in collided with a fishing canoe on the River Niger. The accident claimed the lives of four others, including film crew members.
His untimely death at the age of 39 prompted discussions about safety protocols within the Nollywood industry. Odonwodo’s passing was a significant loss to the Nigerian film community, where he was celebrated for his talent and contributions.
16. Ganiyu Oyeyemi
Ganiyu Oyeyemi
Ganiyu Oyeyemi, widely known as Ogunjimi, was a seasoned Nigerian actor and filmmaker celebrated for his outstanding contributions to the Yoruba film industry.
Born in Lagos State, he gained prominence for his versatility and captivating roles, which endeared him to audiences.
Ogunjimi’s dedication to preserving Yoruba culture through storytelling and acting earned him widespread recognition. Tragically, he passed away on April 26, 2024, leaving behind a legacy of impactful performances and a void in the Nigerian entertainment scene.
17. Zulu Adigwe
Zulu Adigwe
Zulu Adigwe, born on June 27, 1945, in Enugu, Nigeria, was a distinguished Nollywood actor and singer, renowned for his paternal roles in numerous films.
He first gained prominence portraying ‘Mr. B’ in the popular sitcom “Basi and Company” (1987–1990) and later featured in acclaimed movies such as “Issakaba” (1999), “Blood Diamonds” (2004), and “Living in Bondage: Breaking Free” (2019). Adigwe passed away on April 23, 2024.
18. Amaechi Muonagor
Amaechi Muonagor
Amaechi Muonagor, born on August 20, 1962, in Obosi, Anambra State, Nigeria, was a distinguished Nollywood actor, comedian, and movie producer. He began his acting career in 1998, featuring in films such as “Taboo 1” (1989), “Aki and Pawpaw,” “Karishika” (1998), “Aki na Ukwa” (2002), and “Igodo” (1999). In 2017, he was nominated for the Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Awards for Best Actor.
On March 24, 2024, at the age of 61, Muonagor passed away after battling kidney failure. His cousin, Tony Muonagor, also known as Tony Oneweek, confirmed his death.
19. Andy Best
Andy Best
Andy Best, born Ikechukwu Nnadi, was a prominent Nigerian film producer and marketer renowned for his significant contributions to Nollywood. He was the Chief Executive Officer of Andy Best Production, a leading movie production company in Nigeria. His notable works include “Lion of Africa,” “White Poison,” and “My Father’s Cup.”
On March 19, 2024, Andy Best passed away at a private clinic in Owerri, Imo State, after battling a prolonged illness.
20. Jimi Solanke
Jimi Solanke
Jimi Solanke (July 4, 1942 – February 5, 2024) was a distinguished Nigerian actor, dramatist, folk singer, poet, and playwright.
He earned a diploma in drama from the University of Ibadan and later founded “The Africa Review,” a drama group promoting African culture. Solanke’s notable works include “Kongi’s Harvest” (1970), “Sango: The Legendary African King” (1997), and “Shadow Parties” (2021). He passed away on February 5, 2024, at the age of 81.
21. Ethel Ekpe
Ethel Ekpe
Ethel Ekpe, born on November 30, 1963, in Lagos, Nigeria, was a distinguished Nigerian actress celebrated for her role as ‘Segi’ in the popular sitcom “Basi and Company.” She also appeared in films such as “Heartbeats” (2008), “Sons of the Caliphate” (2016), and “Forever 2” (1997).
After relocating to Sacramento, California, Ethel Ekpe passed away on February 5, 2024, at the age of 60, following a battle with cancer.
22. Adejumoke Aderounmu
Actress Adejumoke
Adejumoke Aderounmu, born on March 26, 1984, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Nigeria, was a talented actress best known for her role as ‘Esther’ in the popular TV series “Jenifa’s Diary.” She also appeared in films such as “La Femme Anjola” (2021), “Arugba” (2009), and “Kayanmata” (2018).
On April 6, 2024, at the age of 40, Aderounmu passed away in a private hospital. The cause of her death was not publicly disclosed.
23. Onyeka Onwenu
Onyeka Onwenu
Onyeka Onwenu was a renowned Nigerian singer, actress, and activist known for her powerful voice and influential contributions to the entertainment industry.
She began her music career in the 1980s with hit songs that blend R&B, pop, and traditional African music, earning her the nickname “Elegant Stallion.” As an actress, Onwenu had featured in numerous Nollywood films and TV series, becoming a leading figure in Nigerian cinema. She was also a vocal advocate for women’s rights and social justice causes.
On July 30, 2024, Onwenu passed away after a brief illness, leaving behind a legacy that spans music, film, and activism. Her impact on Nigerian culture is remembered through her powerful lyrics and roles that had inspired many.
Nollywood actors who have died in the last few years
Murphy Afolabi
Source: Instagram/@murphyafolabi20
He passed away on May 14, 2023, just a few days after celebrating his 49th birthday, but the actor was a force to reckon with in the Yoruba faction of Nollywood, having featured in over 100 movie productions. Some of his notable works include Olokiki Oru, Wasila Coded Reloaded and One Blood.
Source: Instagram/@theofficialsaintobi
Before his demise, the veteran film star who rocked the late 90s and early 2000s kept a low profile, with fans pining to have him on their screens again. Unfortunately, Saint Obi bade the world goodbye on May 7, 2023, after battling an undisclosed illness. He starred in over 60 Nollywood movies and produced his first movie, Take Me to Maama, in 2001. Some of his notable works include State of Emergency, Final Whistle and Sakobi the Snake Girl.
Chief Ojo Arowosafe ( Fadeyi Oloro)
Source: The Guardian
Dejo Tunfulu passed away, aged 49, in April 2022. He was loved by many for his funny and chaotic characters as the help or gateman in Yoruba movies. He was also a writer and movie producer, who worked on movies like Jide Jendo, Yemi My Lover and Booda Ode.
Gbenga Richards
Source: Instagram/@gbengarichards
Gbenga Richards died on May 12, 2022, after battling an unknown ailment. Richards was a leading Nollywood star who dazzled viewers with his performance during the 1990s and early 2000s. Some of his notable works include Sango, Mirror in the Sun and Super Story.
Sam Loco Efe
12 years after his demise, Sam Loco Efe still holds a place in the hearts of colleagues and fans because of his indelible work on setting the blueprint for comedy in Nollywood. He died in August 2011. According to reports, the actor was found dead in a hotel room in Owerri, Imo State, after what seemed like an asthma attack. Some of his notable works include Police Recruit, Daddy Must Obey and Tom & Jerry.
Ernest Asuzu
Karibi Fubara
He’s one of the late Nollywood actors whose death left fans and colleagues completely heartbroken because of how open he was about his battle with kidney cancer. Fubara died in December 2021, months after announcing he’d had a successful surgery to take out 90% of his tumour. Some of his notable works include God Calling, The Smart Money Woman and Ratnik.
Sadiq Daba
Source: BBC
Sadiq Daba was a veteran broadcaster and Nollywood thespian who died in March 2021 at the Ayinke General Hospital in Ikeja, after battling leukaemia and prostate cancer. Daba was loved by fans and colleagues, especially for his role as Inspector Waziri in Kunle Afolayan’s October 1, which earned him an AMAA for Best Actor. Some of his notable works include Citation, Eagle Wings and Seven.
Victor Olaotan
Best known for his role in the hit TV series, Tinsel, Victor Olaotan died in August 2021 aged 69. The actor had taken a break from the acting scene in 2016, following a life-altering car accident on his way to a movie set, that left him incapacitated. Some of his notable works include Lotanna, Three Wise Men and Alter Ego. He’s among the late Nollywood actors we won’t forget soon.
Pat Nebo
Photo source: The Punch
Not an actor, but Pat Nebo was one of the leading behind-the-scenes men in Nollywood. He was a renowned production designer and art director who worked on some of the biggest and successful movies in the industry.
Nebo passed away on September 14, 2023, after a prolonged battle with an undisclosed illness. Some of his notable works include Phone Swap, Citation and Being Mrs Elliot.
Yemi Lawrence Adeyemi
Photo source: New Telegraph
Best known for his role as Suara in Wale Adenuga Production’s Super Story series Oh Father, Oh Daughter, Yemi Lawrence Adeyemi passed away on September 24, 2023. The veteran actor’s son shared the sad news with fans who had not seen much of him since he featured in the popular 2001 TV series.
Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji
Photo source: Instagram/@iamsisiquadri
He passed away on March 1, 2024, aged 44. Popularly known by his fans as Sisi Quadri, the comic actor was a force in the Yoruba movie industry. Before his demise, he had crossed into skitmaking, collaborating with content creators like Isbae U, Bimbo Ademoye, Mr Macaroni and many more. Some of his notable works include Anikulapo: The Rise of The Spectre, Seranko Seniyan and Eran Iya Osogbo.
John Okafor
Photo source: Instagram/@realmribu
Popularly called Mr ibu by fans, the legendary comic actor passed away on March 2, 2024, aged 62, after a two-year-long battle with his health.
In November, the actor lost a leg to amputation but fans and well-wishers had hoped he’d brace the storm and return to TV screens. Mr Ibu was renowned for his comedic roles in Nollywood and his jovial personality in real life. Some of his notable works include Mr Ibu, Police Recruit, Mr Ibu Goes to School and Nicodemus.
Deji Aderemi
Photo source: The Punch
Also known as Baba Olofa Ina, the veteran Nollywood actor died on January 4, 2024 aged 73. According to reports, the thespian died of cancer in his hometown of Ede, Osun state. Baba Olofa Ina was famous for taking on roles of traditional chiefs and ifa priests in Yoruba movies. He was among the respected veterans pulled in for Kunle Afolayan’s Netflix series: Anikulapo Rise of The Spectre. Some other notable works include Kabiyesi Olodumare, Ija Omode and Ewe Orun.
Cynthia Okereke
The actress passed away in July 2023, a year after she was kidnapped while filming in Enugu. According to the chairman of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (Delta State Chapter), Emma Onyemeziem, she died after a brief illness. Okereke was known for taking on comic roles in movies alongside colleagues like Nkem Owoh. Some of her notable works include King Jaja of Opobo, Lion Finger and Second Chance.
Rachel Oniga
Source: Instagram/@rachelonigafoundation
Rachel Oniga was a strong force to reckon with in Nollywood, and her demise left a big gap that colleagues can only hope to fill. The veteran film star, 64, passed away in July 2021 from heart-related issues. Until her demise, Oniga was active in the industry and featured in big-budget productions like The Royal Hibiscus Hotel, A Naija Christmas and Chief Daddy.
Ada Ameh
Fans and lovers of the popular TV series, The Johnsons, had a hard time accepting the demise of Ada Ameh. The 48-year-old who’d been battling with her mental health since the demise of her daughter in 2020, passed away in July 2022. Until her death, Ameh was active in the movie scene and featured in projects like Phone Swap, Lockdown and Our Husband.
Sidikat Odukanwi
Source: Diamond Classic Photography
Known by fans and colleagues as Iyabo Oko, the veteran actress battled with her health for years before she died. Rumours of her death first surfaced in 2021 and 2022. However, her daughter finally confirmed her passing on Thursday, June 29, 2023. She is popular for her roles in Yoruba language movies like Okobo Dimeji, Idunnu Okan and Ayitale.
Moji Olaiya
The 42-year-old Yoruba movie star passed away in Canada in May 2017, barely two months after she welcomed a child. Olaiya’s death came as a shock to fans and colleagues who were waiting for her to make a grand return to the screen after her maternity leave. Olaiya was the daughter of legendary highlife maestro, Victor Olaiya, and some of her notable works include No Pain No Gain, Sade Blade and Omo Iya Meta Leyi.
Ify Onwuemene
Ify Onwuemene became a favourite for many Nigerians as the late Sam Loco Efe’s on-screen wife in the TV series, Everyday People. She passed on in May 2021 after battling endometrial cancer. Before her demise, Davido had donated a sum of ₦1m when she was raising funds for her treatment. Some of her notable works include Heaven’s Gate, Closet and I Need to Know.
Aishat Abimbola
Nollywood suffered another major loss when Aishat Abimbola passed on barely a year after her colleague, Moji Olaiya, died in Canada. The actress died aged 42 after battling breast cancer. Until her demise, Abimbola AKA Omoge Campus was a force to reckon with in the Yoruba faction of Nollywood. Some of her notable works include Odaju Obinrin, Omoge Campus and
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