In a poignant year for the Nigerian entertainment industry, 2024 saw the passing of many esteemed figures, including actors, filmmakers, and musicians, who made significant contributions to the vibrant landscape of Nollywood.
This year, we honor the memories of notable personalities whose legacies continue to resonate.
Adedeji Aderemi (Olofa Ina)
The year commenced with the sorrowful departure of renowned Yoruba filmmaker and actor, Adedeji Aderemi, fondly known as Olofa Ina. He passed away on January 4, 2024, at the age of 73 due to an undisclosed illness and was interred the following day.
Jimi Solanke
On February 5, 2024, the industry lost veteran actor and folk singer Jimi Solanke, who died at the age of 81 after a prolonged illness. He tragically passed away while being transported from his home in Ogun State to a medical facility.
Ethel Ekpe
Veteran actress Ethel Ekpe, celebrated for her performances in ‘Basi and Company,’ passed away on February 7, 2024, after valiantly fighting cancer. This loss was confirmed by the Director-General of the National Film and Video Censors Board.
Tolani Quadri (Sisi Quadri)
Yoruba actor Tolani Quadri, popularly known as Sisi Quadri, died on March 1, 2024, at the age of 44. His colleagues mourned his death, announcing his burial the next day in Iwo, Osun State.
John Okafor (Mr. Ibu)
Nollywood mourned the loss of comedic actor John Okafor, known as Mr. Ibu, on March 2 after a prolonged illness. His passing followed a serious health condition that had led to the amputation of one of his legs. He was later laid to rest in his hometown.
Andy Best
Nollywood producer Ikechukwu Nnadi, widely known as Andy Best, reportedly passed away on March 19 after battling a prolonged illness, with his death confirmed at a private clinic.
Amaechi Muonagor
Veteran actor Amaechi Muonagor passed away on March 24 at age 61 after suffering from kidney failure and undergoing dialysis treatment. His funeral was held on June 21 in his hometown.
Aderounmu Adejumoke
Adejumoke Aderounmu, remembered for her iconic role as “Esther” in ‘Jenifa’s Diary,’ passed away on April 6, 2024. Her family confirmed her passing, and a dedicated funeral service was held in Abeokuta, Ogun State.
John Odonwodo (Junior Pope)
On April 10, the entertainment community faced a heartbreaking tragedy with the loss of actor John Odonwodo, known as Junior Pope, who died in a boat accident while returning from a film shoot. He was laid to rest on May 17 in Enugu State.
Zulu Adigwe
Veteran actor Zulu Adigwe passed away on April 23, 2024, at the age of 74. His burial took place on May 29 in Abuja.
Ganiyu Oyeyemi (Ogunjimi)
Prominent Yoruba actor Ganiyu Oyeyemi, also known as Ogunjimi, passed away in April 2024.
Dayo Adewunmi (Sule Suebebe)
On June 12, Nollywood actor Dayo Adewunmi, popularly referred to as Sule Suebebe, died in a hospital in Ibadan following health complications.
Stella Ikwuegbu
Veteran actress Stella Ikwuegbu succumbed to a long battle with leg cancer on June 16, 2024.
Onyeka Onwenu
Renowned singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu, known as the “Elegant Stallion,” passed away on July 30, 2024, at age 72 after collapsing post-performance. She was interred in Lagos on August 30, 2024.
Yusuf Olorungbede
Yoruba actor Yusuf Olorungbede passed away in August 2024 after a health crisis and was placed on life support leading up to his death.
Sharon Okpamen
Actress Sharon Okpamen tragically lost her life in August following complications from childbirth.
Abdulsalam Sanyaolu (Agbako)
At the age of 101, iconic actor Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, also known as Charles Olumo and Agbako, passed away on October 31. His contributions to the industry spanned over 70 years, marking the end of an era. He was buried in Ogun State.
Moses Korede Are (Baba Gbenro)
Gospel actor and filmmaker Moses Korede Are, popularly known as Baba Gbenro from the Mount Zion series, passed away on November 14, 2024, at the age of 65, following complications from diabetes.
