The Yoruba Nollywood industry is reeling from the sudden loss of fast-rising actress Omotola Odunsi, whose death was confirmed on Thursday by her colleague, Akinola ‘Segbowe’ Akano, via an emotional Instagram post.
The cause of her death has not been disclosed, leaving fans and colleagues in shock and mourning.
Akano shared a heartfelt tribute alongside a photo of Odunsi and screenshots of their recent conversations, revealing he had checked on her just hours before her passing.
“Motola! Strange but I tried checking on you at the wee hours of that morning. You said you were FINE & BACK! This is a rude shock, Omotola! Journey well, sister God be with your family,” he wrote.
Actress Ashabi Simple, known as the partner of controversial singer Portable, also expressed her grief in a moving Instagram post.
She described Odunsi as one of the best actors she admired and recounted their recent encounter on the set of the movie Deputy.
“Omoh dis one shock me oooo aunty tola. You’re one of the best actors I’m rooting for. Saw you earlier this year when I was shooting Deputy and we promised to feature each other in our next project, but now u laboured and didn’t wait to reap what life sef,” Ashabi wrote.
She added, “I remember nights you do chat to give me hope and advice, most of your wishes we talked about didn’t even come true. GOD, we can’t question you oooo death is deep.”
Odunsi, known for her modesty and dedication to her craft, had made significant strides in the Yoruba film industry.
She starred in several notable films, including Amonata, Officer Adaeze, Ifedayo, and Ayanmo Ire.
In a 2022 interview with Vanguard News, she shared her journey from a nine-to-five job to pursuing acting full-time, stating, “I almost fell into the act of flaunting my sexuality and I had to adjust,” highlighting her commitment to authenticity in her career.