By Ejiofor Toochi
The year 2024 was marked by moments of celebration and mourning for Nigeria. The loss of these notable Nigerians left a lasting impact on various sectors, from entertainment to politics.
They were individuals whose contributions shaped the nation’s cultural and social landscape. Below, we remember some notable Nigerians who died in 2024.
Jimi Solanke
Jimi Solanke ‘Uncle Jimi’ was a prominent Nigerian folklore musician, film actor, dramatist, poet, and playwright. He was a significant figure in the Nigerian entertainment industry, especially known for his contributions to preserving African traditional music and folklore. Jimi Solanke passed away on February 5, 2024, at 81, after a brief illness.
Herbert Wigwe
Herbert Wigwe, the former CEO of Access Holdings and a prominent Nigerian entrepreneur, tragically passed away on February 9, 2024, in a helicopter crash in the Mojave Desert, United States. The accident also claimed the lives of his wife, Chizoba Wigwe, and their son Chizi. Wigwe was a celebrated figure in the Nigerian banking sector, his passing was a devastating loss to the corporate world.
Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji (Sisi Quadri)
Tolani Quadri Oyebamiji, popularly known as Sisi Quadri, was a talented Yoruba actor recognised for his roles in Nollywood movies, such as Anikulapo. He passed away on March 1, 2024. His death was confirmed by colleagues, including actress Abiola Bayo, who shared heartfelt tributes on social media. The cause of his death was not publicly disclosed. He was 44 years old.
John Okafor (Mr. Ibu)
John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, was one of Nigeria’s most beloved veteran actors and comedians. After battling long-term health issues, Mr. Ibu sadly passed away on March 2, 2024, at the age of 62, following cardiac arrest. His death followed a series of surgeries and health challenges that had previously left him hospitalized. Mr Ibu had previously appeared in over 200 Nollywood movies.
Amaechi Muonagor
Amaechi Muonagor, a veteran actor, comedian, and movie producer, known for his roles in classic Nollywood films died on March 24, 2024. Muonagor succumbed to complications from diabetes and kidney failure. He had been battling these conditions for a while. Throughout his career, Muonagor starred in numerous films, including the memorable Aki & Paw Paw and Aki na Ukwa.
Junior Pope (John Paul Odonwodo)
Junior Pope was a popular Nollywood actor, film producer and content creator. He tragically drowned in the River Niger alongside three colleagues while returning from a movie shoot in Delta State on April 10, 2024. Efforts to revive him proved futile.
Ifeanyi Ubah
Ifeanyi Ubah was a Nigerian businessman, politician, and philanthropist. He was a former member of the Senate of Nigeria, representing Anambra South Senatorial District. He was also the CEO of Capital Oil & Gas Industries Limited, a major player in the oil sector, and the founder of FC Ifeanyi Ubah, a football club. He passed away on July 27, 2024, in London due to cardiac arrest.
Onyeka Onwenu
Known as the “Elegant Stallion,” Onyeka Onwenu was a multifaceted icon; singer, actress, journalist, and activist. She passed away on July 30, 2024, at 72, after collapsing during a performance at a friend’s 80th birthday celebration. Some of her popular songs include Ekwe and One Love. She also featured in many movies including “Half of a Yellow Sun,” “Lionheart,” and others.
These are the Nigerians who died in 2024.
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