Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigerian film industry is in mourning following the sudden death of veteran actor and producer Solomon Akiyesi, who passed away in his sleep on Sunday, April 26, 2026, after a brief illness. The 59‑year‑old thespian, who featured in over 100 films over a career spanning more than two decades, died at his residence in Abuja, leaving behind a legacy of memorable performances and a reputation for bringing light and laughter to every set.
The National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Yakubu, confirmed the sad news on Monday, detailing the events of the actor’s final hours. According to Mr. Yakubu, Akiyesi complained of chest pain the night before his death. He was taken to a hospital, where doctors diagnosed him with an ulcer and administered medication before discharging him. He returned home, went to bed, and did not wake up the following morning. "His wife tried to wake him around 4 a.m., but he did not respond," the AGN president said. "He slept and did not wake up. We await further details from the family. His body is in the morgue in Abuja, where the sad incident happened."
A native of Ososo in Akoko‑Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, Akiyesi began his acting career in the late 1990s and quickly established himself as a versatile performer capable of excelling in a variety of genres, including action, epic, romance, and family dramas. After completing his primary and secondary education in his hometown, he proceeded to the University of Ibadan for his tertiary studies. Over the course of his career, he built a reputation as a dependable character actor, often bringing depth and authenticity to complex supporting roles. He also ventured into film production and directing, contributing to the growth of Nollywood during its formative and expansion years. He served on the Board of the Actors Guild of Nigeria and was the President of the National Association of Ososo Creatives.
Akiyesi’s filmography includes numerous titles that resonated with audiences across the country. Among his notable works are "Deadly Affair" (1995), "Olaedo the Fisher Girl 2" (2015), "Desperate Ladies," "Pretty Liars," "Bridge of Contract," "Heart of a Saint," "Marry Who You Love" (2016), "Kiss My Pain," "Gen Z Wife" (2024), and "Accidentally Us" (2025). He collaborated with many of Nollywood’s biggest names, including Ken Erics, Ini Edo, Queen Nwokoye, Yul Edochie, Chacha Eke, Sylvester Madu, and Angela Okorie.
News of Akiyesi’s passing has sent shockwaves through the Nigerian entertainment industry, with colleagues, fans, and industry stakeholders flooding social media with heartfelt tributes. Actress Celestina Dovigalle penned an emotional message celebrating the late actor’s vibrant personality. "Some people don’t just walk into a room; they light it up with laughter. Solomon Akiyesi was that kind of soul. Playful, full of life, and always ready to turn even the most serious set into a moment of joy," she wrote. "Working with him meant more than just acting; it meant laughter between takes, lightness in heavy moments, and a presence that made everything feel easier. He had a way of reminding you not to take life too seriously. Nollywood won’t forget that… and neither will I."
Other social media users also expressed their grief. One fan wrote, "May God console the family." Another said, "May his soul experience a peaceful transition." A third simply posted, "Rest in peace, Solomon O Akiyesi. It's hard to believe." Some fans expressed disbelief, with one comment reading, "There’s no way that news is true. Please come and debunk this."
The AGN described the actor’s death as a major loss to the industry, noting that it is standing in solidarity with his family during this difficult time. Tributes continued to pour in from across Nigeria’s entertainment space, with many describing Akiyesi as a versatile performer whose presence left a lasting impression on audiences.
Beyond his professional accomplishments, Akiyesi’s personal life had also drawn public attention over the years. In April 2013, his wedding to his second wife, Uloma Agwu, was disrupted when his first wife, Lilian, who was pregnant at the time, stormed the ceremony, claiming they were still legally married. Police officers were called to restore order, and Akiyesi later apologised for the disruption. He was married four times and was survived by his fourth wife, Pretty Owabie Doris. His complicated marital history earned him the label "serial husband" in some Nigerian media circles, a title he publicly rejected, insisting he had been the victim in his failed marriages.
Nevertheless, it is his work on screen that remains his most enduring legacy. A man who once joked that he would "take a bullet" for his craft has now taken his final bow, leaving behind a body of work that will be cherished by generations of film lovers.
"We join the family, friends, and colleagues of the late actor in mourning this painful loss," the AGN statement read. "May his soul rest in peace."
Akiyesi’s death marks another significant loss for Nollywood, which has in recent years grappled with the passing of several prominent figures. Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by his family.
📩 Stone Reporters News | 🌍 stonereportersnews.com
✉️ info@stonereportersnews.com | 📘 Facebook: Stone Reporters News | 🐦 X (Twitter): @StoneReportNew | 📸 Instagram: @stonereportersnews
Add comment
Comments