POPULAR NOLLYWOOD ACTRESS, AUNTY AJARA IS DEAD
By Aishat Momoh. O.

Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, widely known as Aunty Ajara, has died after a prolonged battle with illness, sparking an outpouring of grief across the Nigerian film industry and among fans.
Her death was confirmed on Thursday by Nollywood director Tobi Oladele Teemony, popularly known as Tee Mony, in a statement shared on Instagram.
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved actress, Aunty Ajara. She passed on overnight after a long and courageous battle with illness,” Teemony wrote.
He disclosed that the actress had received overwhelming support from colleagues, fans and well-wishers during her illness, including prayers, financial assistance and emotional encouragement from within and outside Nigeria.
“Throughout this difficult period, she received immense love, prayers, and financial support from kind-hearted people across the world. We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood by her with prayers, contributions, encouragement, and compassion,” he added.
Teemony also urged members of the public to discontinue further donations to the bank account earlier shared for her medical treatment, stressing that financial contributions were no longer needed.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones, and everyone grieving this painful loss,” the statement concluded.
The announcement was accompanied by a video message from the actress’ elder brother, Ridwan Lasisi, who emotionally confirmed her passing and expressed gratitude to supporters.
“Good morning to you all. My name is Ridwan Lasisi. I am a brother to Ajara. The doctor confirmed to us this morning that Ajara has passed on,” he said.
“All the families, we are using this period to appreciate you all. We appreciate the president and all industry members. We also use this opportunity to appeal to those sending money not to send it anymore. The one we are contributing for her sake is no more. Thank you so much. We do not want you to send money into that account again.”
Aunty Ajara’s death comes barely a week after urgent public appeals were made by Teemony and several Nollywood figures, including Ronke Oshodi Oke, for financial assistance as her health reportedly deteriorated.
In a previous post, Teemony had revealed that despite substantial support from colleagues and well-wishers, her condition had worsened.
“Please, we need help. Ajara’s health condition has become more critical despite all the efforts so far. So much has already been spent on her treatment, with generous support from kind-hearted celebrities, actors, and individuals — yet the situation is getting worse,” he wrote.
“At this point, we urgently need more financial assistance to keep her fighting. Any amount, any support, any share can make a difference. Please help us save a life.”
Earlier reports indicated that the actress was pregnant and battling a liver-related illness, with colleagues disclosing that she had been placed on oxygen in hospital as her condition declined.
Several prominent Nollywood stars, including Wumi Toriola, Mide Martins, Afeez Owo and Ronke Oshodi Oke, had rallied public support, amplifying calls for financial aid and prayers amid widespread concern over her health.
Aunty Ajara was best known for her roles in Yoruba-language films, where she gained popularity for her lively screen presence and relatable portrayals. Her death has renewed conversations within the industry about healthcare access, welfare support and the vulnerability of actors facing medical crises.
As tributes continue to pour in, colleagues and fans remember her not only for her talent but also for her resilience and courage in the face of illness.
