Film industry hits with sad news…Saint Obi is dead
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The Nigerian film industry, also known as Nollywood, has lost one of its most revered icons, Obinna Nwafor, popularly known as Saint Obi.
The multifaceted talent, who made his mark as an actor, film producer, and director, passed away last week on Sunday, May 7th, in the comforting embrace of his sibling’s home. However, due to a protracted disagreement among his family members, the official announcement of his demise was delayed for nearly a week.
Saint Obi, a luminary in the Nigerian film landscape, reached the zenith of his career with his exceptional performance in Zeb Eiro’s masterpiece, ‘Sakobi.’ This breakthrough role catapulted him to stardom, and he went on to grace the silver screen in over a hundred movies.
His undeniable talent and magnetic screen presence made him an audience favorite, with notable appearances in timeless classics such as ‘Candle Light,’ ‘Goodbye Tomorrow,’ and ‘Heart of Gold,’ etching his name into the annals of Nollywood history.
News of Saint Obi’s untimely demise arrives on the heels of another tragic loss within the Nigerian film fraternity. Adedigba Mukail, better known by his stage name Alafin Oro, a prominent Yoruba actor, has also departed from this mortal realm. The early hours of Saturday were marred by the sorrowful announcement of Alafin Oro’s passing, as fellow actor Kunle Afod took to social media to express his profound grief. In a poignant Instagram post, Afod lamented the loss of a great philosopher and an icon deeply rooted in the wealth of Yoruba culture.
“R.I.P Adedigba. We will surely miss you. We drank from your River of knowledge, we know how important you are, the sad news this morning really broke my heart @alafinoro1 sun re ooo,” wrote Afod, his words echoing the collective sentiments of an entire industry. The tribute further highlighted the significance of Alafin Oro’s wisdom and the vast reservoir of Yoruba heritage he embodied. Another post by Afod further mourned the loss, stating, “Another library is burnt down today. A great philosopher. An icon with so much Yoruba knowledge. A lover of God @alafinoro1. You departed this sinful world early hour of today. May your gentle soul rest in peace.”
The passing of Alafin Oro sent shockwaves throughout Nollywood, and numerous other luminaries joined the chorus of mourning on social media. As the news reverberated across online platforms, heartfelt condolences poured in from actors, directors, and producers who had worked alongside the departed legend. The profound impact of Alafin Oro’s wisdom, artistry, and commitment to preserving Yoruba culture was evident in the outpouring of tributes that flooded timelines and comment sections.
Nollywood, a vibrant and ever-evolving industry, has lost two of its most treasured sons in quick succession. The void left by Saint Obi and Alafin Oro is immeasurable, their unique talents and contributions etched indelibly in the hearts of colleagues, fans, and the Nigerian film fraternity as a whole. As the industry mourns these irreplaceable losses, it also stands as a testament to their enduring legacies, reminding us of the profound impact artists can have on our lives, transcending the realms of entertainment to become cultural torchbearers and sources of inspiration.
The Actors Guild of Nigeria is yet to make a statement as the family reportedly have a little disagreement hence the delay to make a formal announcement
