Mr Ibu, Sisi Quadri… top Nigerian entertainers that died in 2024

In the grand symphony of life, death often takes its place, yet when it repeatedly strikes a particular demographic or vocation, it sparks understandable concern. 

In Nigeria’s film industry, Nollywood, a realm where stories, dance and cultures intertwine, a somber melody played out in 2024. Like waves crashing upon the shore, a succession of losses washed over the industry, claiming veterans and rising stars alike, leaving behind a collective grief that echoed through the hearts of Nigerians.

Below is the list of Nollywood Actors that died in 2024:

Mr. Ibu

Nollywood icon, Mr. Ibu, whose real name was John Okarfor, has passed away at the age of 62. Reports from close sources confirm that the veteran comedian died at Evercare Hospital, sparking an outpouring of condolences on social media platforms like X (formerly Twitter), with fans fondly recalling his roles in various movies.

Emeka Rollas, the President of Actors Guild of Nigeria, announced the sad news on his Facebook page, expressing sorrow for the loss. He mentioned that Mr. Ibu suffered a cardiac arrest, as reported by his manager of 24 years, Mr. Don Single Nwuzor, while also noting the earlier passing of Kate Henshaw’s mother.

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Details regarding the circumstances of his death are still awaited, and neither Mr. Ibu’s family nor their representatives have made any public statements yet.

The actor had been grappling with health challenges since October 2023, undergoing several surgeries, including the amputation of his leg. However, updates from his family in November had suggested signs of recovery.

Alleged poison

In 2019, Mr Ibu claimed that his relatives bribed some of his household staff to poison him due to his flourishing career. 

Then, in May 2022, the comedic star once again asserted that he was poisoned, marking the third occurrence. 

He recounted, “My ailment was orchestrated by individuals who harbor animosity towards me. They executed their scheme, leading to my hospitalization.” 

Mr Ibu praised the doctors for their discernment, stating, “They diagnosed my condition accurately and assured me of treatment.” He pleaded with them, “Please, do whatever it takes to save me because my demise would only fuel the joy of my adversaries.” 

Sisi Quadri

The Yoruba segment of Nigeria’s film industry is in sorrow following the passing of Quadri Oyebamiji Tolani, affectionately known as Sisi Quadri. 

The news of Sisi Quadri’s demise was confirmed by Bolaji Amusan, also known as Mr. Latin, the President of the Theatre Arts and Movie Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN). 

Mr. Latin shared the news on his Instagram page, offering a brief message of condolence: “Hmm may God grant him eternal rest.” 

While some on Nollywood platforms suggest Sisi Quadri had been grappling with kidney issues, leading to his demise, others remember him as a beloved actor renowned for his effeminate voice and gestures, particularly in Yoruba epic films where he often portrayed the role of a village clown with a sharp tongue. 

Sisi Quadri hailed from Osun State but had his education in Ondo State.

Olofa Ina [Deji Aderemi]

In January, the entertainment world mourned the loss of esteemed actor Deji Aderemi, famously known as Olofa Ina. The news of his passing was shared by Nollywood star Saidi Balogun on social media, paying tribute to the legend. 

Aderemi, also known as the Sobaloju of Edeland, passed away at the age of 73. Born into the family of Chief AbdulSalam Aderemi and madam Aisha Aderemi in Ede, Osun State, on May 15, 1950, during the reign of Oba John Adetoyese Laoye, he attended St. Peters Anglican Primary School and Baptist Secondary Modern School before pursuing vocational training in carpentry and joinery. 

Aderemi founded the Olofa Ina Theatre Group in 1972, where he honed his craft alongside renowned peers, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of theater.

Ethel Ekpe

On February 8, distressing news surfaced indicating the passing of Nollywood luminary Ethel Aderemi, fondly known as Ekpe. Tragically, she succumbed to cancer in Lagos State. 

The Director General of the National Film and Video Censors Board, Shaibu Husseini, shared the sorrowful update on Facebook, recalling Ekpe’s memorable portrayal of Segi in Ken Saro Wiwa’s renowned sitcom ‘Basi and Company’ on Nigerian Television Authority. 

Ekpe’s cinematic journey included notable roles in Aguila Njamah’s ‘Heartbeat,’ Tchidi Chikere’s ‘Speak the Word,’ and Lancelot Oduwa Imasuen’s ‘Traumatised.’

“The actress and later-day Pastor will be sorely missed. My family will particularly miss her because we named my second daughter, Ethel, after her. Good night, good woman.”