Biography of Ajara Lasisi (Aunty Ajara), 10 Things You Must Know
Background and Early Life Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as Aunty Ajara, was a distinguished Nigerian actress who carved a niche for herself in the Yoruba film industry. Born in Nigeria, Ajara belonged to a close-knit family, with her brother, Ridwan Lasisi, often serving as a public spokesperson for the family during her health challenges. She was widely recognized as a “small-sized” actress, a physical trait that she leveraged with immense charisma to become one of the most recognizable comic and character actors in Nollywood’s Yoruba sector.
10 Things to Know About Aunty Ajara
- Stage Name: While her biological name was Ajara Lasisi, she was almost exclusively referred to by her fans and colleagues as Aunty Ajara, a name that reflected her “big sister” energy on screen.
- Career Longevity: She was a veteran of the Yoruba movie industry, with a career spanning over a decade, during which she transitioned from minor roles to becoming a major draw for movie posters.
- Notable Filmography: She starred in several high-profile Yoruba productions, including the 2024 film Oko Ajara, as well as popular titles like Gingerrr, Queen Lateefah, and Isiti.
- Comic Prowess: She was best known for her comedic roles, often playing feisty, assertive, and witty characters that contrasted humorously with her physical stature.
- Viral “Steeze”: In 2024, she became a viral sensation for her “steeze” (style and composure) at the Queen Lateefah movie premiere, where her fashion choices and red-carpet confidence trended across TikTok and Instagram.
- Family Responsibility: Despite her fame, she was known to be very family-oriented; reports from colleagues indicated that a significant portion of her earnings went toward caring for her mother, who was battling a stroke.
- Physical Trailblazer: Along with other actors like Aunty Ramota, she was instrumental in increasing the visibility of “small-sized” individuals in the Nigerian entertainment industry, proving that talent is not measured by height.
- Professional Endorsements: Her talent was respected by industry giants, leading to collaborations with stars like Peju Ogunmola, Wumi Toriola, and Odunlade Adekola.
- Health Battle: Her final months were marked by a courageous battle with a liver-related illness. Despite receiving over N5 million in donations from colleagues and the public, her condition remained critical.
- Final Condition: In the weeks leading up to her death on February 5, 2026, it was revealed that she was also pregnant while being managed on oxygen support at the hospital.
Conclusion
The passing of Ajara Lasisi marks the end of a vibrant chapter in Yoruba cinema. Throughout her professional journey, she demonstrated that physical attributes need not be a barrier to achieving national stardom. Her ability to blend humor with authentic storytelling earned her a permanent place in the hearts of Nigerian film lovers.
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As the industry reflects on her contributions, she will be remembered not only for the laughter she provided but for her resilience, her dedication to her family, and her role in making Nollywood a more inclusive space for diverse talents.