In 2023, the Nigerian entertainment industry mourned the loss of several prominent figures. These individuals contributed significantly to the diverse landscape of Afrobeat music, film, and comedy. Let’s take a moment to reflect on their legacies.
**1. Peace Anyiam-Osigwe:**
A trailblazing filmmaker and President of the Association of Movie Producers, Peace Anyiam-Osigwe, passed away on January 10 in Lagos. She founded the Africa Film Academy in 2005, leaving an indelible mark on African cinema.
**2. Sunday Akanbi Akinola:**
Veteran actor Sunday Akanbi Akinola, famed for his role as “Mogaji” in the 1980s series “Feyikogbon,” succumbed to kidney failure on January 9 at the age of 80.
**3. Femi Ogunrombi (Papa Ajasco):**
Femi Ogunrombi, known for portraying Papa Ajasco in Wale Adenuga’s comedy series, passed away on January 14, 2023. His comedic legacy lives on through memorable performances.
**4. Favour Daniels:**
Comedian and actress Favour Agiounim Daniels, celebrated for her social media skits, tragically lost her life at the age of 26 in a boat accident on February 5, 2023.
**5. Ojo Arowosafe (Fadeyi Oloro):**
Veteran Nollywood actor Ojo Arowosafe, popularly known as Fadeyi Oloro, passed away on March 7 at the age of 66. His eloquent Yoruba incantations made him a notable figure in the industry.
**6. Obinna Nwafor (Saint Obi):**
Saint Obi, a veteran actor and producer, breathed his last on May 7, 2023, at the age of 57. His filmography includes notable works like ‘Take Me to Maama,’ ‘State of Emergency,’ and ‘Sakobi.’
**7. Adedigba Mukaila (Alafin Oro):**
Veteran actor Adedigba Mukaila, stage-named ‘Alafin Oro,’ passed away on May 13, 2023, leaving behind a legacy in the Nigerian entertainment scene.
**8. Murphy Afolabi:**
Renowned Yoruba actor and filmmaker Murphy Afolabi departed on May 14, 2023, shortly after celebrating his 49th birthday. His contributions to the industry, especially in ‘Omo Rapala,’ won’t be forgotten.
**9. Chikezie Uwazie:**
Nollywood actor Chikezie Uwazie, who underwent brain surgery in the United States, sadly passed away on May 14, 2023.
**10. Chris Mba:**
Veteran pop singer Chris Mba, known for hits like ‘Funky Situation,’ left us on May 3, 2023, after battling heart issues.
**11. Afeez Agoro:**
Afeez Agoro Oladimeji, recognized as the tallest man in Nigeria and a Nollywood actor, passed away on June 15 after a prolonged illness.
**12. Ilerioluwa Aloba (Mohbad):**
Nigerian artiste Mohbad, aged 27, left us on September 12, 2023, under questionable circumstances. His impactful songs like ‘Ko Por Ke’ resonate in the music scene.
**13. Cindy Amadi:**
Nollywood actress Cindy Amadi, known for her role in the movie “Ife,” left us in September 2023, as announced by the movie producers.
**14. Oluyemi Adeyemi (Suara):**
Veteran Nollywood actor Oluyemi Lawrence Adeyemi, popularly known as Suara, passed away on September 24, 2023, leaving behind memories from the hit series ‘Super Story.’
Let’s cherish the memories of these entertainers who shaped the cultural tapestry of Nigeria.
