Celebrities Who Passed Away in the Last Two Months
The Nigerian entertainment industry has been hit by a wave of grief over the past two months, as several beloved celebrities have died. Among them are Nollywood actors, musicians, and content creators who left behind legacies that continue to be celebrated by fans and colleagues. Their deaths, caused by illnesses, accidents, and other circumstances, have prompted an outpouring of tributes across social media and at funeral ceremonies.
Alexx Ekubo Dies at 40 After Battle with Kidney Cancer
One of Nollywood's most prominent actors, Alexx Ekubo, passed away in May 2026 at the age of 40. His death shocked the entertainment industry because few knew he had been battling advanced metastatic kidney cancer since 2024. Ekubo kept his illness private, even from close friends and colleagues. He had been absent from social media for about a year before his passing, and when a video of him surfaced online, fans noticed he appeared pale and expressed concern. On May 11, 2026, he died due to complications from the illness. A Service of Songs was held in his honor in Lagos State, while his funeral rites took place in Arochukwu, Abia State. A wake was held on June 17, 2026, and he was laid to rest on June 18, 2026.
Veteran Actor Kola Oyewo Passes at 80
Chief Dr. Kola Oyewo, a veteran actor and retired lecturer, died on June 12, 2026, after a brief illness. He had reportedly battled an enlarged prostate for some time. Actor Kunle Afod announced the news, having regularly visited Oyewo and brought him gifts. Oyewo's son paid tribute to his father on Facebook, celebrating his talent, character, and legacy.
Comic Actor Okiki Adeshina Dies in Road Accident
Okiki Adeshina, a comic actor known for his roles in Yoruba movies, died on May 31, 2026, in a ghastly road accident while traveling. Colleagues described him as kind-hearted and humble. He had attended a movie premiere just days before his death. Fans who saw him in Ibadan recounted their last moments with him. The fatal accident occurred about 10 minutes after his bus departed, colliding with a vehicle parked by the roadside. Videos from the accident scene surfaced online as fans and colleagues mourned.
Fuji Veteran Love Azeez Dies at 81
Alhaji Abdul Azeez Oladeji, popularly known as Love Azeez, a veteran Fuji musician, passed away at his residence after a brief illness. He was buried according to Islamic rites in Ojodu Berger. Love Azeez was one of the oldest surviving Fuji musicians and helped popularize the genre among grassroots audiences in Yorubaland. He served as President of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) in 1989 and later chaired the Copyright Society of Nigeria.
Urhobo Musician Johnson Adjan Dies at 82
Johnson Ositejivwore Oyiborode Adjan, known as Professor Johnson Adjan and Ogburine (Song Warrior), died on June 12, 2026, at age 82. The philosophical singer from Delta State was a custodian of Urhobo culture, teaching values, history, and wisdom through his music. He had battled a stroke before his passing.
British Singer Talay Riley Dies in Stabbing
British singer Mark Olabanji A. Olayinka A. Orabiyi, known as Talay Riley, died after being stabbed in East London at age 35. The incident occurred at about 9 a.m. on June 5, 2026, on Pankhurst Avenue in Silvertown.
Music Executive Michael Ndika Dies at 44
Michael Ndika, an artist manager and music executive, died in May 2026 at age 44. His passing devastated the industry and his wife, singer Niniola Apata, who had been married to him for 13 years. Ndika was buried on June 5 amid tears. The cause of his death was not disclosed.
Veteran Actor Fesogboye Oyewole Dies
The Yoruba movie industry mourned the death of veteran actor Fesogboye Oyewole, popularly known as Uncle Feso, in May 2026. TAMPAN President Bolaji Amusan, known as Mr Latin, first announced the news, and the actor's family later released an official statement.
Patrick Okoye Dies at 64
Nollywood actor Patrick Okoye died in May 2026 at age 64. He was known for portraying elderly men and kings in films. Beyond acting, Okoye was a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State.
Content Creator Monica Oma Owunaka Dies at 30
TikToker and content creator Monica Oma Owunaka, known as Monique Pearls, died in May 2026 at age 30. She was known for heartfelt content on motherhood, family life, and her caregiving relationship with a young girl named Precious. Fans paid glowing tributes following her passing.
Solomon Akiyesi Dies in His Sleep
Nollywood actor Solomon Akiyesi died in his sleep, according to colleague Celestina Dovigalle, who paid tribute. Before his death, Akiyesi had complained of chest pain and sought medical attention. He died in his sleep and was found unresponsive by his wife at about 4 a.m.
In a related report, movie director Rotimi Raji died after slumping in his bathroom at home. He was living alone, and his remains were discovered by a neighbor who grew worried after not seeing him for days.
