BREAKING: Popular Yoruba Actress Is Dead
The Nigerian film industry is in deep mourning following the heartbreaking news of the popular Yoruba actress passing, after a prolonged illness. The beloved screen icon reportedly died in the early hours of Thursday, February 5, 2026, leaving colleagues, fans, and the wider entertainment community in shock.
Her passing was confirmed by senior industry figures and close associates, who disclosed that the actress had been battling a chronic health condition for several months before she succumbed at an undisclosed medical facility. News of her death spread rapidly across social media, triggering an emotional wave of tributes from fellow actors and admirers who grew up watching her light up the screen.
Aunty Ajara was widely celebrated for her impeccable comedic timing and distinctive on screen presence in the Yoruba movie sector. As a prominent figure in the small sized acting community, she carved out a remarkable career by defying physical stereotypes and proving that talent and charisma matter more than appearance in Nollywood.
Emerging reports from family sources suggest that the actress struggled with a severe liver related illness in her final months. A viral video shared by a close associate who visited her shortly before her death showed a frail woman far removed from the vibrant and energetic characters audiences loved, further confirming the seriousness of her condition.
Veteran filmmaker Tunde Ola Yusuf was among the first industry leaders to announce her passing. In a solemn statement, he described her death as a colossal loss to the creative arts and a painful blow to the Yoruba film community. Despite multiple medical interventions and financial assistance from within Nollywood, her health reportedly declined sharply earlier this week, leading to her untimely death.
Over a career spanning more than a decade, Aunty Ajara featured in numerous popular Yoruba films and viral comedy skits. She was particularly known for playing bold, witty, and authoritative roles, often portraying strong big sister characters who stood their ground alongside Nollywood heavyweights.
Beyond her performances, colleagues remember her as a disciplined professional who valued punctuality, teamwork, and excellence on set. She remained deeply committed to the growth and international recognition of indigenous Yoruba cinema, inspiring many upcoming actors who saw themselves reflected in her journey.
Following confirmation of her death, the Actors Guild of Nigeria and several Yoruba movie associations have begun releasing official condolence messages. Many of her co stars have also shared behind the scenes moments and throwback clips, celebrating the joy and laughter she brought to film sets and to audiences nationwide.
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Fans on platforms such as X and Instagram have been reposting their favorite movie scenes featuring the late actress, praising her role in promoting inclusivity in Nigerian cinema. Tributes bearing her name quickly climbed Nigeria’s trending charts, highlighting the deep emotional bond she shared with viewers.
The death of Aunty Ajara leaves a noticeable void in the Yoruba film industry. Her rise from a niche performer to a nationally recognized actress remains a powerful story of resilience and talent. Although her final curtain has fallen, her legacy lives on through the body of work she left behind, continuing to entertain and inspire future generations. Burial arrangements are expected to be announced by her family in the coming days, with many anticipating a large turnout from the Nollywood community to honor a fallen star.