Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as Aunty Ajara, is dead.
Her death was announced on Thursday by Nollywood director, Tobi Oladele Teemony, also known as Tee Mony, in a statement shared on Instagram.
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved actress, Aunty Ajara. She passed on overnight after a long and courageous battle with illness,” the statement read.
Teemony said the late actress received “immense love, prayers, and financial support from kind-hearted people across the world” during her illness.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood by her with prayers, contributions, encouragement, and compassion,” he added.
He also urged members of the public to stop sending donations to the account previously shared for her treatment, stating that financial contributions were “no longer required”.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones, and everyone grieving this painful loss,” the statement added.
The statement by Teemony was accompanied by a video by her elder brother, Ridwan Lasisi.
He said, “Good morning to you all. My name is Ridwan Lasisi. I am a brother to Ajara. The doctor confirmed to us this morning that Ajara has passed on.
“All the families, we are using this period to appreciate you all. We appreciate the president and all industry members.
“We also use this opportunity to appeal to those sending money not to send it anymore. The one we are contributing for her sake is no more. Thank you so much. We do not want you to send money into that account again.”
The announcement came about a week after Teemony and other nollywood figures like Ronke Oshodi Oke appealed for urgent financial assistance for the actress, saying her condition had worsened despite ongoing treatment and support from colleagues and well-wishers.
“Please, we need help. Ajara’s health condition has become more critical despite all the efforts so far. So much has already been spent on her treatment, with generous support from kind-hearted celebrities, actors, and individuals — yet the situation is getting worse.
“At this point, we urgently need more financial assistance to keep her fighting. Any amount, any support, any share can make a difference. Please help us save a life. Thank you and God bless,” he wrote at the time.
Earlier reports indicated that the small-screen actress was pregnant and battling a liver-related illness, with colleagues saying she had been placed on oxygen in hospital as her condition deteriorated.
Several Nollywood stars, including Wumi Toriola, Mide Martins, Afeez Owo and Ronke Oshodi Oke, had rallied support and appealed for financial assistance for her treatment amid growing public concern over her health.
Punch/Olaolu Fawole
