A distressing video of Nollywood actor Ifeanyi Ezeokeke, popularly known as Ugo Shave from the movie Conspiracy, has surfaced online, showing him helpless and unable to speak. The actor has been battling an unknown illness that has left him bedridden for nearly two decades.
Plight of the Actor
In the video shared by brand influencer Emmanuel Okwuluora Okoh Onyeka, Ezeokeke is seen sitting weakly, staring at the camera. Emmanuel revealed that the actor has been down for 19 years and has not received proper medical care due to poverty. He also disclosed that Ezeokeke lost his father during this period, and his mother suffered a road accident that left her with a metal implant in her leg, making it difficult for her to care for her son alone.
Call for Assistance
Emmanuel appealed to senior Nollywood colleagues and the public for financial contributions to support Ezeokeke's medical treatment and to build a small house for him and his mother. He stated, "This environment is not okay; we want to build a small house for them so they won’t suffer."
Fan Reactions
Social media users expressed deep concern, tagging veteran actors to intervene. Comments included: @realogebeiby said, "Chaii I watch his film oo those days." @queenethenwerem speculated, "I think this sickness is projected... the saw he is the light and strike him with sickness." @bigbabyfunny_ urged, "Bollywood make una help this boy na why you people ignoreing this boy."
Others criticized Emmanuel for naming only a few actors, while many offered prayers for the actor's recovery.
Context of Nollywood Health Crises
This incident follows recent health struggles of other Nollywood veterans. The family of actor John Okafor, aka Mr Ibu, recently updated Nigerians on his condition after five successful surgeries, noting he was recovering in the ICU.
