The entertainment industry has suffered painful losses with the passing of some veterans in the first half of 2023. The most recent is the death of a veteran actress, Sidikat Odukanwi, aka Iyabo Oko.
Sidikat Odukanwi
Before her passing, Sidikat Odukanwi, aka Iyabo Oko, battled with ill health for some years. She was a known associate of Late Babatunde Omidina, aka Baba Suwe.
Announcing her death on Thursday, June 29, 2023, her daughter, Bisi Aisha, wrote on Instagram, “It is well, mummy. Rest in peace, Wurami.”
Brymo Uchegbu
Brymo Uchegbu, popularly known as Don Brymo, passed on Thursday, June 15, 2023. The 56-year-old Anambra State-born actor died in his sleep.
Confirming the news, his colleague and friend, Mayor Ofoegbu, wrote on Facebook, “Plan for tomorrow but live for today. Tomorrow is not guaranteed. I wrote those lines on my WhatsApp status yesterday evening. My man, my five and six, Don Brymo Uchegbu, passed away in his sleep. I received the shocking news this morning and had to verify it from his family. It’s hard to say goodbye.”
Afeez Agoro
Before his demise, Afeez Agoro was believed to be the tallest man in Nigeria. He died on Wednesday, June 14, 2023 at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital.
According to sources, the actor suffered some health complications after a recent surgical operation.
Murphy Afolabi
Murphy Afolabi, a popular Nollywood actor passed on May 14, 2023, in Lagos. This came days after his 49th birthday celebration.
He had suffered a fall in his bathroom before he died that morning.
Chikezie Uwazie
Actor, Chikezie Uwazie, died in the United States of America. This came after underwent a second brain surgery.
The news of his death was revealed by his colleague, Obey Etok.
She wrote: “I cannot imagine I am posting this. Chikezie Uwazie is gone after a second brain surgery. I’m so shocked (sic) to get this news this evening.
“I thought you told me you were going to the States for greener pastures. You promised to come back some years back, but I did not see you. I cannot believe you are gone, but God knows best. Rest on, Chyko.”
Mukaila Adedigba
Mukaila Adedigba, aka Sikiru Adeshina died on Saturday, May 13.
Until his death, Adeshina was a veteran Yoruba actor.
Chris Mba
Unlike the names above, Chris Mba was a veteran musician. He died on Wednesday, May 3, 2023, at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital after a long battle with heart disease.
He was known in the 1980s for his jerry curl and hit songs such as ‘Funky Situation’, ‘Baby Don’t Cry’ and ‘Love Everlasting’.
Saint Obi
Another popular entertainer who died in the first half of 2023 is popular actor, Obinna Nwafor, aka Saint Obi.
He died on May 7, 2023, following an undisclosed ailment.
Fadeyi Oloro
Veteran actor, Ojo Arowosafe, aka Fadeyi Oloro, died on Tuesday, March 7, after battling ill health for years.
Arowosafe was 66years of age.
His death was confirmed by an actor and comedian, Bayegun Oluwatoyin, aka Woli Arole, who wrote on Instagram: “(I am) so happy I reached out to you and we played our part, and laughed together. (I am) so happy we were able to show our support. Rest in peace the legend, Fadeyi Oloro. Let’s check up on people when they are alive. Let’s show love when people can feel it. Let’s help when it can be seen.”
