As we bid farewell to these talented Nigerian celebrities, it is important to celebrate the indelible mark and legacies they have left behind
By Eugene Onyeji
In 2023, the Nigerian entertainment industry, known for its captivating Afrobeat music and the enthralling performances in its movies lost some of the industry’s finest stars, whose legacies will forever inspire and guide future creators. The number is quite devastating as they are snatched away by the chilling hands of death.
As we bid farewell to these talented Nigerian celebrities, it is important to celebrate the indelible mark and legacies they have left behind on the Nollywood and music industry. Their contributions have touched the lives of millions, inspiring and entertaining generations to come.
Here, TheNiche honours these 28 celebrities we sadly lost in 2023. Only in TheNiche you can get this comprehensive list.
1. Peace Anyiam- Osigwe
Trailblazing filmmaker, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe died at the St Nicholas Hospital in Lagos on Monday, January 9, 2023 at the age of 53 after suffering a heart attack which led to a 2-day coma.
The queen of nollywood films, was a native of Imo state and the President of the Association of Movie Producers. She was also the founder of the globally acclaimed film ceremony African Movie Academy Awards which she started in Yenagoa, Bayela State on the 30th of May, 2005, an award ceremony reputed to be one of the most recognised awards for Africans in film-making.
She was also notable for the screening of Nollywood films at International Film Festivals and was bestowed by the Nigerian government a Member of the Order of the Federal Republic for her contribution to the entertainment industry.
2. Chief Sunday Akanbi Akinola ( Feyikogbon)
Ace Veteran actor Chief Sunday Akanbi Akinola who became popular for his role as “mogaji “ in the series “ Feyikogbon “which aired on NTA channel 7 in the southwestern Nigeria in the 1980’s, died on the 9th of January, 2023 of Kidney failure at the age of 80.
Prior to his death, the actor had solicited for help from the public in 2019 for financial assistance to treat the illness, saying that his role in the series had only given him fame without finance.
3. Femi Ogunrombi (Papa Ajasco)
Femi Ogunrombi who played the role of Papa Ajasco, a character known for his portly belly and hitting his head while saying “Ojigbigbigbi” in the TV comedy series Papa Ajasco and company by Wale Adenuga Production died on the 14th of January, 2023.
Femi Ogunrombi was a native of Abeokuta in Ogun State. He rose to fame after taking over the character of Papa Ajasco in 2005 when Mr Abiodun Ayoyinka pulled out of the show. He was a member of the National Troupe of Nigeria in 1994 and worked as the director of Nigerian National Music and conducted National Choir in 1998. He was also the director of studies at the Pencil Film and Television Center in Lagos.
4. Favour Agiounim Daniels
The young comedienne and actress, Favour Agiounim Daniels, popularly known as ‘Omoge,’ ‘Oma” and ‘Amama’ who had gained popularity through her skits on social media passed away after a boating accident on the 5th of February, 2023 at the age of 26.
It was indeed a sad day for the industry as many experienced disbelief and shock at the news.
5. Chief Ojo Arowosafe ( Fadeyi Oloro)
Veteran Nollywood actor, Ojo Arowosafe, popularly known as Fadeyi Oloro, died on Tuesday, March 7, at the age of 66, after a protracted illness. Fadeyi Oloro is popularly known for his oratory skills in reciting Yoruba incantations. He rose to fame after acting the movie ‘Arelu’ in the late 80’s. He also acted in movies like Inubibi, Anike Olufa and Akoni mefa among others.
His death was announced by his daughter Fasunwon Oluwafunke.
6. Gbemisola Anjola
The actress died on Friday, March 24, 2023, after a prolonged battle with ovarian cancer. Gbemi was diagnosed with the ailment in 2021, and she travelled to Dubai, UAE, for chemotherapy, which lasted approximately six months.
She returned to Nigeria cancer-free after receiving medical treatment in Dubai, but on Friday, March 25, 2023, Gbemi complained of a headache and was rushed to the hospital, where she died.
7. Chris Mba
Veteran pop singer, Chris Mba, died of heart issues at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital. He died on Wednesday, May 3, 2023.
The musician gained fame in the 1980s for his distinctive jerry curl and for delivering hits like ‘Funky Situation,’ ‘Baby Don’t Cry,’ ‘Making My Way,’ and ‘Love Everlasting.’
8. Chikezie Uwazie
The death of Nollywood actor Chikezie Uwazie was announced on 5 May, 2023. He died in the United States after undergoing brain surgery.
His death was announced by colleague, Obey Etok, via her Instagram page on Sunday.
She wrote, “I can’t imagine I’m posting this. Chikezie Uwazie gone. After a 2nd brain surgery. Gini na emezi. I’m so shocked to get this news this evening. Just got this from our IMSU alumni platform.
“I thought you told me you were going to the States for greener pastures. You promised to come back some years back but I didn’t see you.
“I can’t believe you are gone but God knows best. Rest on Chyko.”
9. Obinna Nwafor (Saint Obi)
Veteran actor and movie producer Obinna Nwafor, also known as Saint Obi was one of the finest Nigerian celebrities. He passed on at the age of 57 on May 7, 2023.
The thespian passed on after battling with an undisclosed ailment for some time and was reported to have relocated to Jos, the Plateau State capital for further treatment of the ailment that had kept him in and out of the hospital for over two years. He was laid to rest on August 18, 2023, in his hometown, Alaenyi Ogwa, Imo State.
In 2001, he produced his first movie titled, ‘Take Me to Maama’. He also acted in many movies including, ‘State of Emergency’, ‘Sakobi’, ‘Goodbye Tomorrow’, ‘Festival of Fire’, and ‘Heart of Gold’. Saint Obi was without doubt one of the brightest Nigerian celebrities.
10. Adedigba Mukaila
Among the notable personalities who died in 2023 is Veteran actor Adedigba Mukaila, known for his stage name ‘Alafin Oro’. He died on the 13th of May, 2023.
His death was announced by fellow actor Kunle Afod , on his social media page.
He wrote; “Another library is burnt down today. A great philosopher, an icon with so much Yoruba knowledge, a lover of God @alafinoro1. You departed this sinful world in early hour of today, May your gentle soul rest in peace.”
11. Murphy Afolabi
Popular Yoruba actor and filmmaker, Murphy Afolabi, died on the 14th of May, 2023 after a tragic fall from his bathroom in his home in Ikorodu area of Lagos.
The actor had just celebrated his 49th birthday before his tragic death.
The actor shot to fame following his role in the movie ‘Omo Rapala.’ Born on May 5, 1974, Afolabi got into the movie industry in 2001. Prior to that, he had studied Theatre Arts and Film Production at the Osun State Polytechnic, Iree. He appeared in over 60 movies before his death, including ‘Ifa Olokun’, ‘Omowunmi’, ‘Jimi Bendel’, ‘Wasila Coded’, ‘Olokiki Oru’, and ‘Idera’
12. Wunmi Olowokandi
Wunmi Olowokandi was a Nigerian Actress and a filmmaker. She passed away on 15 May 2023. The cause of her death is yet to be made public.
Wunmi’s death comes after the deaths of Saint Obi, Murphy Afolabi and Chikezie Uwazie, which stirred concerns from fans.
13. Prince Adewale Adeyemo
Veteran Yoruba actor, Prince Adewale Adeyemo, died on Monday, May 22, after a brief illness.
The news was announced by fellow actor, Kunle Afod, on his Instagram page. Sharing a picture of the deceased, Afod wrote, “Hmmmm God you know best RIP Prince Adewale Adeyemo.
“He passed on early hours of today after a brief illness. God will comfort all his family, friends and colleagues.”
This comes hours after the Yoruba movie industry held a night of tribute for the late Murphy Afolabi, who passed on May 14, 2023.
14. Joseph Ada
Joseph Ada passed away on Wednesday, May 24 in Delaware, United States.
Announcing his death, Popular media personality, lawyer and Big Brother Naija (BBNaija) host, Ebuka Obi-Uchendu took to his Twitter handle to share a short tribute where he expressed shock at the news of the death of the former BBNaija housemate.
He wrote, “Sad to hear about the passing of Joseph Ada. A fellow housemate in the first season of @BBNaija in 2006 and actual OG of fan bases with JFC. Started a whole new life in the US about 15 years ago only to now have it cut short… Rest in peace Ojoegeh.”
The late Ada participated in the first edition of BBN in 2006. He was in the house with Ebuka Obi-Uchendu, Gideon Okeke, Maureen Osuji, Katung Aduwak, Francisca Owumi, Ify Ejikeme, Helen, and others.
A former flight attendant with Virgin Atlantic, the late reality star moved to the US after the show.
He was diagnosed with pancreatitis and sadly passed away at the age of 48.
15. Afeez Agoro (Nigeria’s Tallest Man)
Popular Nollywood actor widely regarded as the tallest man in Nigeria, Afeez Agoro Oladimeji, passed away on June 15 after a prolonged illness.
Before his demise, Agoro was 7ft 4in tall. The intimidating height of the deceased, who was featured in some movies, attracted stares wherever he went.
16. Don Brymo
Mr Brymo Uchegbu, a Nollywood actor who is popularly known as Don Brymo, died on 15 June 2023. He died in his sleep.
Don Brymo, who hails from Anambra State, was born in 1966.
He was one of the most sought after Nigerian actor. He had proven his versatility at interpreting any role given to him.
He has starred in over 80 Nollywood movies such as; My Beloved Daughter, Snake battle, Land of Fire, No Mercy, My God Never Sleeps and so on.
17. Iyabo Oko
Veteran Nollywood actress, Sidikat Odunkanwi professionally known as Iyabo Oko, died on 28 June, 2023.
Before her demise, the 61-year-old actress battled with ill-health which caused her to take a long break from the movie scene
She was born on the 15th of November 1960 in Iwo Local Government Area of Osun State.
Sidikat had stage names such as “Iyabo Oko” “Apoti Aje” Sisi Mama”.
One of her daughters, Olamide, had disclosed that her mother was diagnosed with ischaemic stroke about five years ago but kept her health issues away from the public.
18. Cynthia Okereke
Famous Nollywood and vibrant actress, Cynthia Okereke, died on 11 July 2023 in Nigeria at age of 53 after a brief illness.
Okereke died almost one year after she was kidnapped alongside actor Clemson Cornel Nonyelu, popularly known as ‘Agbogidi’, while filming in Enugu, in 2022.
The veteran actress, who hailed from Enugu State, starred in over 150 movies, including Osuofia in London, Sound of Love, Second Chance, Mr Ibu’s Wedding, Mega Mama, and several others.
The veteran actress was laid to rest last Saturday, October 14, 2023.
19. Musiliu Ajikanle
After enduring a strenuous seven-year battle with a stroke, the veteran movie actor Musiliu Ajikanle died on 31 July, 2023 at the age of 67.
He devoted a significant portion of his life to producing high-calibre Yoruba films. He was more than a performer. He was a lifelong advocate for the development and improvement of young people and a prime source of orientation.
20. Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba (Mohbad)
Renowned Nigerian singer, Ilerioluwa Oladimeji Aloba, popularly known as Mohbad, died on September 12, 2023, at the age of 27 mysteriously, with videos of the singer being bullied and assaulted resurfacing after his demise. He was known for his hit songs Feel Good, Peace, Ponmo, Beast and Peace, Sorry, Ko Por Ke, among others.
He was formerly signed to Naira Marley’s “Marlian Records” and left the label in 2022.
Also known as Imole, it was reported that he lost his life after an auxiliary nurse administered some wrong injections to him.
21. Cindy Amadi
The tragic loss of Cindy Amadi, a talented 26-year-old actress known for her role in the popular movie ‘Ife,’ stunned the industry. Her untimely demise was announced on September 14, 2023 by Nigerian movie producers via social media.
Cindy Amadi made her mark in the film industry by co-starring in the groundbreaking film “Ife.” In this remarkable project, she shared the screen with MTV Shuga’s Uzomaka Aniunoh.
The film, a powerful portrayal of a same-sex love story, was directed by Uyaiedu Ikpe-Etim, the sister of renowned actress Nse Ikpe-Etim. Cindy’s involvement in this project showcased her dedication to taking on diverse and meaningful roles in the world of cinema.
22. Pat Nebo
Renowned as a production designer and art director, Pat Nebo left an indelible mark with his work in films such as “October 1,” “Being Mrs Elliot,” and “Okafor’s Law.”
His demise on September 14, 2023, came after a prolonged battle with illness.
23. Hakeem Alamutu (Eba)
Akeem Alamutu is a veteran actor popularly known as Eba.
He died on September 18 at 63 following a protracted battle with illness.
He had acted in movies such as Abara Meji, Oluwo, Oluwo 3, Irawo Agbaye, Onise Wokaholic.
24. John Oboh (Mighty Mouse)
John Oboh was the pioneer of Ajegunle Music, he was considered the godfather of music in the Ajegunle environs, Lagos and he was known as Mighty Mouse.
He died on 18th September 2023, in the metropolitan city after allegedly battling cancer.
25. Yemi Lawrence Adeyemi (Suara)
A revered veteran actor known for his iconic role in the popular series “Super Story” back in 2001, Yemi Lawrence Adeyemi, fondly addressed as Suara, passed away on 24 September, 2023. Suara, a name that stuck since his role in Super Story series, Oh Father! Oh Daughter!
Suara was born in the late 1940s – approximately 1948 making him 75 years of age at the time of his death. The veteran actor Suara had eight children from three different women throughout his life.
The family of the veteran actor in an official statement released utters that Suara died on Sunday September 25th 2023. They however do not disclosed the source of his death.
26. Natty Bruce Idigbogu
Nollywood martial arts actor, director and producer Natty Bruce Idigbogu, died at the age of 57 on 6 November, 2023. He peacefully died in his sleep after battling a prolonged illness.
27. Usman Baba Pategi “Samanja”
The industry faced yet another loss with the passing of veteran Hausa actor Usman Baba Pategi, popularly known as Samanja, at the age of 84.
He breathed his last in the early hours of November 12, 2023, in a private hospital in Kaduna State after a prolonged illness.
28. Dejumo Lewis
Dejumo Lewis was a Nigerian film and television actor, famous for the Kabiyesi role in The Village Headmaster, Nigeria’s longest-running television soap opera shown on NTA from 1968 to 1988.
He was born in 1943 in Ekiti, south western Nigeria. Dejumo had his primary education at the Holy Cross Primary School in Lagos Island.
He later did his secondary education at St.Gregory’s College, Lagos.
Dejumo changed his mind and went to junior seminary to become a Priest at St Theresa’s Catholic Minor Seminary in Ibadan.
He eventually abandoned the priesthood idea and went for his Master’s degree at the University of Ibadan to study Communication Arts.
He was pronounced dead on December 23, 2023, by his junior colleague, Saheed Balogun, who took to his Instagram page. He died at the age of 80.
Read Also: 20 Nollywood actors and actresses who died in 2021
Here are 23 Nollywood celebrities that died in 2022
The physical presence of these Nigerian celebrities may be gone, their memories and achievements will forever be etched in our hearts. Let us remember these extraordinary individuals for their remarkable talent, unwavering passion, and the joy they brought into our lives. May they rest in eternal peace.