Published by Oravbiere Osayomore Promise.
The Nigerian film industry is reeling from an unprecedented wave of losses in 2026, with at least 17 actors, directors, and crew members passing away between January and August. From veterans who shaped the industry's foundation to rising stars and technical experts who worked behind the scenes, the deaths have left a void in Nollywood that will take years to fill. The tragedies have struck across generations and roles—actors succumbing to cancer, veterans dying after brief illnesses, and crew members losing their lives in on-set accidents—making 2026 one of the most devastating years in the industry's history.
The year began with tragedy on January 16, when special effects artist James Akaie died following an explosion on a movie set in Abeokuta, Ogun State. Known for his technical prowess and creativity, Akaie was experimenting with a pyrotechnic setup involving a gas cylinder when the blast occurred. The explosion also injured two assistants. His death, announced by film producer James Abinibi, sent shockwaves through the industry and raised urgent questions about safety standards on film sets.
February proved to be the most tragic month, claiming seven lives. On February 5, beloved comic actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as "Aunty Ajara," died after a prolonged battle with liver disease. Her family confirmed that she passed away in the early hours of the morning. On February 7, two Nollywood production crew members were found dead inside a parked vehicle on a movie set in Lekki, Lagos. Lighting director Godstime Imeh, CEO of GeeTee Light, and creative video director Walter Odediran, known as Director Carrinqton, had been working on a film directed by former Big Brother Naija housemate Boma. Their bodies were discovered on the evening of February 7 inside Imeh's tinted Nissan vehicle. An autopsy later ruled out food poisoning as the cause of death. The Lagos State Police Command arrested a suspect in connection with the deaths.
On February 24, comic actor Oluwatope Bamidele Saint, popularly known as Okemesi, died while receiving treatment at a hospital after a prolonged battle with illness. He was pronounced dead at 11:50 a.m. on February 24. Veteran actress and filmmaker Oby Kechere, widely remembered for her iconic role as "Madam Koi Koi" in the 2002 comedy classic Aki na Ukwa, died on April 27 after a prolonged illness. The Directors Guild of Nigeria confirmed her passing. A day later, on April 28, veteran Nollywood actor and producer Solomon Akiyesi died in his sleep in Abuja. The Actors Guild of Nigeria confirmed that he went to bed and did not wake up.
May was another month of profound loss. On May 11, actor Alexx Ekubo died at age 40 after a battle with advanced metastatic kidney cancer. His family announced that he passed away from complications related to the disease. On May 28, veteran actor and lecturer Patrick "Energy" Okoye died in the early hours of the morning. He was also a lecturer at Nnamdi Azikiwe University. The following day, May 29, veteran Yoruba actor and filmmaker Fesogboye "Feso" Oyewole passed away. His family confirmed his death but did not disclose the cause. On June 1, actor, filmmaker, and comedian Adeshina Okiki Oshin, popularly known as Janmole, died in a car accident. He had survived a serious accident more than a year earlier.
June saw the loss of veteran actor Kola Oyewo, who died on June 12 at the age of 80. The respected theatre icon and scholar passed away after a brief illness. His son confirmed the news on Facebook. On June 29, veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Adeshina, known by his stage name Elegbeje Ado, died at 66 after a brief illness. His death was confirmed by fellow actor Kunle Afod and Best of Nollywood Awards founder Seun Oloketuyi. The latest losses occurred in August. Actress Temitope Osoba died on August 5 at the age of 40. She had publicly battled breast cancer and undergone surgery nearly two years earlier. Her family, however, dismissed reports that she died from cancer, describing the claims as false and unauthorised. Just hours after her death, acclaimed filmmaker and director Dimbo Atiya passed away. Known for directing the television series Sons of the Caliphate, Atiya's death was announced by actor Mofe Duncan and producer Seun Oloketuyi. The cause of his death had not been disclosed.
The deaths of these 17 individuals have left Nollywood in a state of collective grief. Colleagues, fans, and public figures have paid tribute to the departed, remembering their contributions to Nigeria's film industry. Veteran actor Chiwetalu Agu described Alexx Ekubo's death as a painful loss to the film industry. Atiku Abubakar, presidential candidate of the African Democratic Congress, mourned the passing of Kola Oyewo. The Actors Guild of Nigeria and the Directors Guild of Nigeria also released statements honouring the fallen. The coincidence of Alexx Ekubo and Temitope Osoba both dying at age 40 in the same year intensified the sadness felt by their admirers and colleagues. With several months still remaining in 2026, the industry is bracing for the possibility of more losses. The tragedies have reignited calls for better welfare and safety measures for Nollywood professionals, as the industry mourns the loss of so many of its brightest stars and most dedicated workers.
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