The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of Nollywood actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem after a battle with breast cancer.
Her death was announced on Tuesday by the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN).
Owolabi Ajasa, the Executive Governor of TAMPAN in Ogun State and a colleague of the late actress, confirmed the development in a statement shared on Instagram.
The announcement was accompanied by a video showing Kareem during her illness, when she had appealed to Nigerians for financial assistance and prayers.
In the emotional recording, the actress disclosed that she had been receiving treatment for breast cancer for some time and that her family had already spent heavily on her care.
She also said TAMPAN had supported her but that additional assistance was still needed.
Kareem appealed to members of the public to help her, noting that she had two young children and was determined to continue fighting the illness.
Following her death, the association thanked colleagues, fans and other Nigerians who contributed financially or offered prayers and encouragement during her treatment.
The statement, signed by the Ogun State TAMPAN Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, described the support received during Kareem’s illness as deeply appreciated by both her family and colleagues.
The association expressed sadness that despite medical efforts, prayers and public support, the actress eventually passed away.
TAMPAN prayed for comfort for her family, friends and colleagues and asked God to grant her eternal rest.
Atinuke Kareem’s death is another painful loss for the Yoruba film industry, which has recently mourned the passing of other prominent practitioners.
Her colleagues and supporters are expected to continue paying tribute to her work and memory as news of her death spreads across the entertainment industry.
