Four Nigerian Stars Pass Away in Tragic Week

Nigeria's entertainment scene is in mourning after the deaths of four well-known figures in just a few days. The loss has left many fans and colleagues heartbroken.

The wave of sadness began with the death of juju musician Iyun Ajilore, known as Saint Janet. She was famous for mixing traditional juju and highlife sounds with street slang and humor. Her lively performances and bold lyrics made her a beloved figure.

Ajilore called herself the leader, or "G O of the Saint Bottles Cathedral and Sinners’ Chapel". She died on August 1 after a short illness. Many fans, fellow musicians, and socialites honored her memory, remembering her as one of the most colorful entertainers of her time.

Just days later, tragedy struck again in the Yoruba film industry with the death of actress Temitope Osoba at the age of 40. Her colleagues shared the sad news on Wednesday, August 5. Before her death, Osoba spoke about her battle with cancer, saying it inspired her to raise awareness about the disease.

An announcement on her Instagram page revealed she would be buried on Thursday, August 13, 2026, in Iperu Remo, Ogun State. The funeral service will be held at Saint James Anglican Church in Iperu Remo, and her burial will take place at Iperu Remo Cemetery. The family has asked mourners to wear white for the event.

As the industry was still grappling with these losses, filmmaker Dimbo Atiya also passed away at 53. Atiya was recognized as one of Nigeria’s influential television producers, known for works like Sons of the Caliphate, Halita, and the award-winning The Rishantes.

Actors, producers, and filmmakers paid their respects, calling him a visionary storyteller and mentor whose influence went beyond his productions. The news of his death added to the sorrow in the industry.

The grief deepened with the passing of relationship expert and media personality Teddy Don-Momoh’s wife, Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh, better known as Coach Lara. She died after a brief illness, just weeks after giving birth to her first child with Don-Momoh.

Coach Lara was well-known as a therapist, author, relationship coach, and business strategist. Many admired her for helping people grow in their relationships and personal lives. Her family has asked for privacy and mentioned that they would share details about her funeral arrangements later.

The deaths of Saint Janet, Temitope Osoba, Dimbo Atiya, and Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh have left a deep void in the entertainment industry. Fans, colleagues, and loved ones are mourning across the country. Though they worked in different areas of the creative field, each left a lasting mark on Nigeria’s cultural scene.