The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, has been thrown into mourning following the passing of veteran actress Nkechi Nweje. The heartbreaking news was confirmed on Friday, March 21, by filmmaker Stanley Ontop, who described her as a dear friend.
Reports of Nweje’s demise had circulated earlier, but Ontop officially confirmed it on social media, expressing disbelief and sorrow. According to him, the actress succumbed to a brief illness.
Sharing his grief, Ontop recalled their last conversation, which happened during a social media dispute involving Queeneth Hilbert and Destiny Etiko. He posted touching words alongside photos of Nweje, stating:
“Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant actresses, @nkechi.nweje, after a brief illness. I couldn’t post since morning because it felt like a dream. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha, rest in peace, ma’am. My best friend, she always called me to give advice. The last time we spoke was during Queeneth’s saga. She told me, ‘Ontop, stop.’ I’m still speechless.”
Destiny Etiko, Chizzy Alichi, and Fans React
Following the tragic news, Nollywood stars and fans flooded social media with tributes. Actress Destiny Etiko expressed shock, commenting: “How is this possible? Please be sure, @stanley_ontop.”
Chizzy Alichi also reacted in disbelief, writing: “Mbanu, how??????”
Other fans and colleagues expressed grief, with one saying, “She was preparing for her birthday… oh my God!” Another lamented, “This world is something else. Unbelievable.”
Another Loss for Nollywood
Nweje’s passing comes shortly after the industry lost veteran actor Columbus Irosanga, known for his role as the native doctor Igbudu in the 2001 blockbuster Isakaba. His death has further deepened the sorrow in the Nollywood community.
As tributes continue to pour in, fans and colleagues remember Nkechi Nweje for her contributions to the industry and the lives she touched. May her soul rest in peace.
