Njemanze gained fame in the 1990s following powerful performances in iconic films such as Pounds and Dollars, Issakaba and Osuofia in London
By Kehinde Okeowo
Nollywood actor, Tom Njemanze has passed away at the age of 75.
The veteran thespian died on Friday following a protracted battle with prostate cancer.
His demise was confirmed via a post shared on Saturday by movie producer, Stanley Ajemba Chibueze, better known as Stanley Ontop.
Captioning a picture of the ailing actor on his sick bed, he wrote, “Good afternoon everyone it’s another sad period as we just received news from Tom Njemanze’s family that he has succomed to his ailment and passed on yesterday. May his soul RIP”
A week earlier, his colleague, Charles Oputa, aka CharlyBoy, appealed to Nigerians of goodwill to provide financial support for the actor.
Speaking during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), he said, “Our Nollywood icon Tom Njemanze, the legendary actor you watched in Issakaba and Osuofia in London, is in a hospital bed fighting for his life.
“Prostate complications are draining him, and he needs urgent surgery that costs millions; how many more legends must we lose before we start showing up for our own?”
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He added, “I, Area Fada, and the CharlyBoy Foundation are calling on all well-meaning Nigerians, fans, colleagues, and those who still believe in compassion, let’s rise for Tom. Let’s not wait for RIP hashtags.
“Let’s save him while we still can. Donate whatever you can. Nothing is too small.”
Njemanze, who gained fame in the 1990s, is renowned for his powerful performances in iconic films such as Tokunboh, Pounds and Dollars, Atosa, Issakaba, Osuofia in London, Brain Box, and Igbotic Love.
Known for his expressive delivery and commanding screen presence, he remains a cherished figure in Nigerian cinematic history.
Colleagues, friends, family, and fans have continued to pay tribute to the actor, offering prayers for the peaceful repose of his soul and asking God to give his family the strength to bear the loss.
