Nollywood actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem has died after battling breast cancer, the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria has announced.
Kareem’s death was announced on Tuesday by her colleague and TAMPAN Ogun State Governor, Owolabi Ajasa, in a statement posted on his official Instagram page.
The announcement was accompanied by a video of the actress appealing to Nigerians for financial assistance and prayers as she battled the disease.
In the video, Kareem disclosed that she had been undergoing treatment for breast cancer for some time and that the cost of her medical care had placed a heavy financial burden on her family.
“I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help. The association I belong to, TAMPAN, has tried too, but it’s not enough,” she said.
Appealing for further assistance, the actress said she had two young children and urged Nigerians to support her treatment with whatever amount they could afford.
“Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help,” Kareem pleaded.
In the statement signed by TAMPAN Ogun State Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, the association thanked colleagues, fans and well-wishers who supported Kareem financially and emotionally throughout her illness.
The association said the contributions, prayers and encouragement offered during her treatment meant a great deal to Kareem’s family and members of the entertainment community.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,” the statement said.
“Your kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant so much to her family and all of us. We are deeply grateful.”
TAMPAN Ogun also expressed grief over the actress’s death, saying members could only accept her passing as the will of God despite the efforts made to save her.
“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call,” the association said.
The group prayed for eternal rest for Kareem and strength for her family, colleagues and loved ones to cope with the loss.
Her death comes barely a week after the Yoruba film industry was thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who also died after battling stage-four cancer.
