Deaths of Nollywood stars: Rita Edochie urges end to speculation

Nollywood veteran actress, Rita Edochie, has appealed to Nigerians to refrain from speculating on the deaths of Nollywood movie stars, emphasizing that death is an inevitable part of life that affects everyone, not just celebrities.

Taking to her Instagram page @ritaedochie, the renowned actress expressed her disapproval of questions like “What is happening in Nollywood?”, asserting that death is an unavoidable reality that touches everyone’s lives, not just actors alone.

According to her, “Celebrities are human beings too; they are subject to the same fate as others in various walks of life. Just as people in different professions pass away, celebrities are also not immune.”

She went on to explain that reactions to the deaths of celebrities, whether positive or negative, are often heightened due to their popularity and the impact they have had on the entertainment industry.

“If teachers, doctors, lawyers, businessmen and women, even pastors can pass away, then why should the deaths of filmmakers be perceived differently?”

“People, especially in Nigeria, often raise questions such as; what is happening in Nollywood? Why are actors dying? Something must be wrong.’ These kinds of questions are irritating and should be discontinued because death is a natural, albeit unpleasant, part of life,” she wrote.

Meanwhile, the actress mourned the loss of Nollywood legend Muonagor, who passed away on Sunday, March 24, after battling a prolonged illness at the age of 62. She remarked that the veteran actor fought hard to survive, but when his time came, nothing could prevent it.

“It is unfortunate that he could not overcome this illness. Amaechi, ‘your departure has left an irreplaceable void in the midst of my family and me’.

“You were not just a brother and colleague, but a beacon of light, brightening our days with your contagious laughter and unwavering kindness.

“Your absence is deeply felt, as we reminisce about the countless shared moments and the wisdom we gained from you.

“Your dedication to your craft and your unyielding spirit in the face of challenges were a source of inspiration for all of us.

“While we grieve your loss, we also celebrate the beautiful life you lived and the lasting impact you made on our hearts.

“Rest peacefully, dear brother and friend, knowing that your legacy will continue to inspire and uplift us in the days to come.

“Rest in power, my dear brother, friend, and colleague, Chief Amaechi Muonagor. May God Almighty grant the family you left behind the strength to bear this loss, Amen,” she concluded.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) recalls that the Nollywood actress had recently sought financial support for the late actor a few days prior.