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The Nigerian film industry has suffered several notable losses in 2026, with veterans and younger talents passing away across different months. Among those remembered are veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died at 66 after battling stage-four cancer, and actress and filmmaker Temitope Osoba, who died at 40 after a battle with breast cancer.
Other deceased stars include veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Adeshina, known as Elegbeje Ado, theatre legend Kola Oyewo, Yoruba actor Okiki Adeshina, popularly called Janmole, and contemporary Nollywood actor Alexx Ekubo. Their deaths were linked to various circumstances, including illness and a road accident, leaving colleagues and fans mourning across the industry.
The list also includes actress and filmmaker Oby Kechere, known as Madam Koi Koi, veteran actor Solomon Akiyesi, The New Masquerade star Davis Offor, popularly known as Clarus, Yoruba actor and content creator Bamidele Oluwatope, known as Okemesi, and actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly called Aunty Ajara. Their contributions across Nigerian theatre, television, film and online entertainment have left lasting memories among audiences.
