The Nigerian film industry was thrown into mourning on Thursday following the death of Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, widely known by her screen name, Aunty Ajara.
Her passing was confirmed by Nollywood director Tobi Oladele Teemony, popularly called Tee Mony, in a statement shared on Instagram.
According to the statement, the actress died overnight after what he described as a “long and courageous battle with illness.”
“With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved actress, Aunty Ajara. She passed on overnight after a long and courageous battle with illness,” the statement read.
Teemony acknowledged the overwhelming support the late actress received during her illness, noting that she was surrounded by “immense love, prayers, and financial support from kind-hearted people across the world.”
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood by her with prayers, contributions, encouragement, and compassion,” he added.
He also urged members of the public to immediately stop sending donations to the bank account earlier circulated for her medical treatment, stressing that financial contributions were “no longer required.”
“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones, and everyone grieving this painful loss,” the statement concluded.
The announcement was accompanied by a video message from her elder brother, Ridwan Lasisi, who confirmed that doctors officially declared her dead earlier that morning.
“Good morning to you all. My name is Ridwan Lasisi. I am a brother to Ajara. The doctor confirmed to us this morning that Ajara has passed on,” he said.
He expressed gratitude to supporters across the country and within the entertainment industry, while also reiterating the family’s appeal for the public to stop sending money to the previously shared account.
“We also use this opportunity to appeal to those sending money not to send it anymore. The one we are contributing for her sake is no more. Thank you so much,” he added.
The tragic development came barely a week after Teemony and other Nollywood figures, including veteran actress Ronke Oshodi Oke, publicly appealed for urgent financial assistance for the actress, stating that her health had worsened despite sustained treatment and support from colleagues and well-wishers.
“At this point, we urgently need more financial assistance to keep her fighting. Any amount, any support, any share can make a difference,” Teemony had written at the time.
Earlier reports had indicated that the Yoruba-language screen actress was pregnant and battling a liver-related illness. Colleagues disclosed that she was placed on oxygen as her condition deteriorated in hospital.
Several Nollywood stars, including Wumi Toriola, Mide Martins and Afeez Owo, had rallied public support and called for prayers and donations, sparking widespread concern across social media.
Aunty Ajara was known for her comic roles in Yoruba films and skits, where her lively expressions and relatable characters endeared her to a growing audience.
Her death marks another painful loss for the Nollywood community, reigniting conversations about healthcare access and welfare support for actors within the industry.