ALEXX EKUBO, TOPE OSOBA, KOLA OYEWO, 7 OTHER NOLLYWOOD STARS WHO DIED IN 2026

By ‘Sefiu Ajape

The Nigerian film industry has recorded several losses in 2026, with veteran actors, actresses, and other prominent practitioners passing away at different times throughout the year.

From performers who became household names through classic Nigerian television and Yoruba theatre to contemporary Nollywood stars, their deaths have left families, colleagues, and fans mourning.

Here are 10 Nollywood stars whose deaths were reported in 2026:

1. Ajara Lasisi — ‘Aunty Ajara’

Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as Aunty Ajara, died on February 5, 2026, after a prolonged illness.

Her death was announced by filmmaker Tobi Oladele, also known as Tee Mony, while her brother, Ridwan Lasisi, later confirmed her passing.

Lasisi was known for her comic and supporting roles in Yoruba-language films. She was buried the same day in accordance with Islamic rites.

2. Bamidele Oluwatope — ‘Okemesi’

Actor and content creator Bamidele Oluwatope, popularly known as Okemesi, died in February 2026.

He was known for his energetic and comic roles in Yoruba films, as well as his appearances in online skits and content.

Oluwatope was particularly recognised for blending English, Yoruba, and his Ekiti dialect in his performances and online content.

3. Davis Offor—’Clarus’

Veteran actor Davis Offor, popularly known as Clarus, died on April 6, 2026, at the age of 85.

He was best remembered for playing Clarus Mgbeojikwe in the classic Nigerian television comedy series The New Masquerade.

His portrayal of the mischievous houseboy made him one of the memorable faces of Nigerian television comedy.

4. Solomon Akiyesi

Veteran actor Solomon Akiyesi died in April 2026.

The Actors Guild of Nigeria confirmed his death. He was known for his appearances in several Nollywood productions and had built a reputation within the Nigerian film industry over the years.

5. Oby Kechere—’Madam Ms. Koi Koi’

Actress, filmmaker, and producer Oby Kechere, popularly known as Madam Koi Koi, died on April 27, 2026, after a prolonged illness.

She became widely known for playing Ms. Koi Koi in the popular comedy film Aki na Ukwa.

Kechere was also involved in filmmaking behind the camera and was a member of the Directors Guild of Nigeria.

Late Nollywood actor, Alexx Ekubo

6. Alexx Ekubo

Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo died in May 2026 at the age of 40.

He became one of the recognisable faces of contemporary Nollywood after emerging as first runner-up in the 2010 Mr. Nigeria competition.

Ekubo featured in films including A Man for the Weekend, The Blood Covenant, Devil in Agbada, and Afamefuna: An Nwa-Boi Story.

7. Okiki Adeshina — ‘Janmole’

Yoruba actor Okiki Adeshina, popularly known as Janmole, died in June 2026 following injuries sustained in a road accident.

He was among the actors whose deaths added to the losses recorded in the Yoruba film industry during the year.

8. Kola Oyewo

Veteran actor, dramatist, and theatre scholar Kola Oyewo died on June 12, 2026, at the age of 80.

Oyewo began his acting career in 1964 with the Oyin Adejobi Theatre Group and became one of the respected figures in Nigerian theatre and film.

He was particularly remembered for his portrayal of Odewale in Ola Rotimi’s The Gods Are Not to Blame.

9. Taiwo Adeshina — ‘Elegbeje Ado’

Veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Adeshina, popularly known as Elegbeje Ado, died on June 29, 2026, after a brief illness.

He was known for his contributions to Yoruba-language cinema and featured in several indigenous productions.

10. Temitope Osoba

Actress and filmmaker Temitope Osoba died in August 2026 at the age of 40.

She began her acting career in 2005 and featured in several Yoruba-language productions.

Osoba also worked as a dancer and film producer during her career and was known to have spoken publicly about her battle with breast cancer.

Their legacies live on

The deaths cut across different generations of Nigeria’s film industry. While some were celebrated veterans who helped shape Nigerian theatre, television, and indigenous cinema, others belonged to a younger generation taking Nollywood in new directions.

Their performances, memorable characters, and contributions to the industry, however, remain part of Nigeria’s entertainment history.