Notable Nollywood Actors Lost in First Quarter of 2024

The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has been hit with a spate of deaths of prominent actors in the year 2024. Ace thespians, such as Mr. Ibu and Sisi Quadri are the latest.

The industry, over the years, has lost numerous seasoned veterans and budding talents.

As part of tributes to the late actors, it is imperative to reflect upon the invaluable contributions they made to the film industry in Nigeria.

Here is the list of Nollywood actors that have died in 2024 so far:

On 4 January, 2024, the death of Nollywood actor, Chief Deji Akinremi, popularly known as ‘Olofa Ina’ was announced. He died at the age of 73.

Before establishing himself in the world of theatre, Baba Olofa Ina founded the Olofa Ina Theatre Grouo in 1972, making significant strides by pioneering the staging of epic histories of Yoruba Warlords. These productions were recorded by Nigerian Television, Ibadan in the 70s.

Some of his notable productions included Ija Omode, Idaamu Otunba, Ewe Orun, Kabiyesi Olodumare, Mayegun, Ejo Ngboro, Lisabi Agbongbo Akala.

Ethel Ekpe

Veteran actress, Ethel Ekpe, who adorned the Nigerian entertainment screen for years, died on Wednesday, February 7, in Lagos State.

Ekpe is well known for playing the role of ‘Segi’ on the Nigerian Television Authority sitcom, ‘Basi and Company’. She died after a long battle with cancer.

Sisi Quadri

Yoruba Nollywood actor, Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri died on March 1, at the age of 44.

Oyebamiji celebrated his 44th birthday on December 25, 2023.

His death was announced by some of his colleagues in the Yoruba movie industry.

Announcing his death, Nollywood actress, Abiola Bayo wrote on her verified Instagram handle, “You will be greatly missed, Sisi Quadri. May your soul rest in perfect peace.”

Another actor, Tunde Yusuf who posted his (Sisi Quadri) picture said, “Everything in the world is according to the will of Allah. From Allah we have come and unto Him we shall return. May God bless, rest your soul, bro.

Mr. Ibu

A day after Sisi Quadri’s demise, the news of the passing of comedic actor, John Okafor, popular as Mr Ibu broke out.

The actor, renowned for his comedic roles, died at the age of 62. It plunged fans and colleagues into mourning.

Nigerians acknowledge Mr. Ibu for his talent and unwavering strength amidst personal health challenges.

His contribution to Nollywood’s quintessential comedic figures is destined to endure as an individual. He wields large influence over the nation’s cultural and entertainment space.

Amaechi Muonagor

Three weeks after losing one of its comic actors to the pang of death, the Nigerian movie industry lost yet another veteran actor, Amaechi Muonagor, to the cold hands of death.

Muonagor died on Sunday, March 24, after battling kidney disease for a long time.

This came a few days after a viral video in which he solicited financial assistance from Nigerians to enable him to travel abroad for a kidney transplant.

Muonagor appeared in dozens of films, including Aki and Paw Paw. It is one of his most famous roles, where he played the father of two mischief-making, exuberant teenagers.