Celebrities who died in 2024

The Nigerian entertainment industry suffered a profound loss in 2024, as several beloved celebrities who made lasting impacts passed away.

Here are some of the shining stars we mourn who left us far too soon:

OLOFA INA

Veteran actor Olofa Ina, born Deji Aderemi, passed away on January 4, 2024, at the age of 73. Renowned for his iconic movie roles and masterful delivery of scripts, he graced the screen in films such as Odetedo, Lakaaye, Kogun Maja, and Ade Oba.

Olofa Ina’s legacy will be profoundly missed.

SISI QUADRI

Tolani ‘Sisi Quadri’ Oyebamiji, a beloved Yoruba actor, passed away on March 1, 2024, at Ladoke Akintola University Teaching Hospital in Ogbomosho. Known for his comedic roles and quick-witted insults, Sisi Quadri endeared himself to fans with his unique charm.

He was laid to rest in his hometown of Iwo, Osun State.

JOHN ‘MR IBU’ OKAFOR

Veteran comic actor John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu, passed away in March 2024 at the age of 62 due to cardiac arrest. Prior to his death, Mr. Ibu had bravely battled a life-threatening illness that resulted in the amputation of his leg.

He was laid to rest on June 28 in Amurri, Nkanu, his hometown in Enugu.

AMAECHI MUONAGOR

Actor Amaechi Muonagor passed away in April 2024 after a prolonged struggle with kidney disease, diabetes, and a stroke. At 61, and hailing from Idemili town in Anambra State, Muonagor had called for financial assistance to cover his medical expenses before his passing. His invaluable contributions to the Nigerian film industry will be deeply remembered.

ADEJUMOKE ADEROUNMU

Adejumoke Aderounmu tragically passed away on April 6. Rising to fame through Funke Akindele’s TV series Jenifa’s Diary, the young actress left a lasting impact.

Her death ignited controversy, with accusations from her brother claiming neglect by Akindele during her illness. Despite the controversy, Aderounmu’s talent and potential will be cherished and remembered.

SARATU GIGADO

Kannywood actress Saratu Gidado, popularly known as Daso, passed away on April 9, 2024. With over two decades of experience in the Hausa film industry, Gidado starred in more than 100 movies.

Her legacy will continue to inspire future actors in the Kannywood industry.

JUNIOR POPE

Actor Junior Pope Odonwodo tragically lost his life in a boat accident on the River Niger in Asaba, Delta State, on April 10, 2024. He, along with four crew members, was en route to a movie location.

The news of his passing sparked widespread controversy and profound grief throughout the entertainment industry and among his fans.

ONYEKA ONWENU

Legendary singer and actress Onyeka Onwenu collapsed and passed away at Stella Okoli’s 80th birthday party, founder of Emzor Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Company, on July 30, 2024.

The 72-year-old award-winning songstress was laid to rest at the Ebony Vaults in Ikoyi, Lagos, on August 30.

Onwenu’s illustrious career in music and acting, spanning over four decades, will continue to inspire future generations of artists.

SULE SUEBEBE

Dayo Adewunmi, the acclaimed actor known as Sule Suebebe, passed away on June 12. Renowned for his comedic brilliance, Suebebe died at an undisclosed hospital in Ibadan, Oyo State, at the age of 68.

Before his passing, the Ekiti-based thespian had called for financial assistance to cover his medical expenses. Suebebe’s unmatched talent for bringing laughter will be profoundly missed.

STELLA IKWUEGBU

Stella Ikwuegbu, the acclaimed actress, passed away in July after a courageous battle with leg cancer. Ikwuegbu began her acting career in 1990 and made notable contributions to Nollywood, appearing in numerous films. Her lasting impact on the Nigerian film industry will not be forgotten.

SHARON OKPAMEN

Actress and producer Sharon Okpamen passed away in August 2024, just a month after welcoming her second child. She began her acting career in the mid-2000s, gaining recognition for her role in Touch Not My Crown.

Okpamen appeared in several notable films, including The Great Servant, Take A Fall, Eshikito, Enibokun Nollose, Ovbieze Odehiomwan, Olighi, Efosa, and The Housewife.

Her talent, dedication, and contributions to the industry will be remembered, and her legacy will continue to inspire future actors.

CHARLES ‘AGBAKO’ OLUMO

Abdulsalam Sanyaolu, the legendary Nigerian actor widely known as Charles Olumo and Baba Agbako, passed away on October 31, 2024, at the remarkable age of 101.

Born on February 19, 1923, in Abeokuta, Ogun State, Baba Agbako’s acting career spanned over seven decades, leaving a lasting impact on the Nigerian film industry.

His enduring legacy will continue to inspire future generations of actors.

BABA GBENRO

Gospel actor and producer Baba Gbenro passed away, leaving a lasting legacy in the gospel film industry. His impactful contributions to the industry will always be remembered.

ETHEL EKPE