1. Mohbad
Ilerioluwa Aloba, known as Mohbad’s was a huge shock to Nigerians, because his death on September 12, 2023, was highly unexpected. The 27-year-old musician gave us back-to-back hits during his short period in the music industry. Lyrics from his songs like “Ko pe ke” or “Wetin be this one like this?” would remain evergreen. His danceall tunes and reserved personality will always be respected. Even in the ongoing fight for justice over his untimely death, we continue to remember him for his impact.
2. Murphy Afolabi
Murphy Afolabi, during his time was extremely loved by fans of Yoruba movies, we cannot forget his timeless acting and funny accent. He delivered excellently in his roles and his passing came as a surprise to everyone. Afolabi passed away on May 14, 2023, within the same time frame as Adedigba Mukaila and Saint Obi, further compounding Nollywood’s loss at the time.
3. Femi Ogunrombi aka Papa Ajasco
Papa Ajasco was arguably our number 1 comedy show growing up. Our childhoods would have been boring without tapping our heads and saying “Oh Jibijibijibi” like Papa Ajasco used to. This year, we also said goodbye to Femi Ogunrombi, who played Papa Ajasco; he died in January 2023, may his soul rest in peace.
4. Saint Obi
Famous Nollywood actor and movie director, Obinna Nwafor, known as Saint Obi, died at the age of 57 on May 6, 2023, after an elongated battle with sickness. The Nollywood star passed away in Jos, Plateau State capital. The iconic actor stood out in Nollywood, providing hits upon hits for years.
5. Chief Ojo Arowosafe, aka Fadeyi Oloro
We also lost another veteran Nollywood actor, Ojo Arowosafe, popularly known as Fadeyi Oloro, this year. He died on March 7, 2023, after a protracted illness at age 66. The sad news was announced by the actor and comedian, Bayegun Oluwatoyin aka Woli Arole, via his Instagram account.
6. Cynthia Okereke
Nollywood lost popular actress Cynthia Okereke this year. She was 63 years old when she died, and will be remembered for her roles in movies over the years, especially in the comedy “Osuofia in London”. She also starred in movies such as Reggae Boys, Nwando, and A Fool at 40, amongst many others. Okereke’s death came as a shock to many, and even though she will be missed, we seek peace in the legacy she left behind.
7. Adedigba Mukaila
The Yoruba Nollywood industry suffered a great loss when popular actor Adedigba Mukaila, known as Sikiru Adeshina, passed away on May 13, 2023. His death was announced by fellow actor, Kunle Afod on social media. Adedigba was very popular among the fans of Yoruba movies and his passing came as a shock, his legacy will remain evergreen.