The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of veteran actor Solomon Akiyesi, who reportedly passed away in his sleep.
His death was confirmed on Monday by the President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria, Abubakar Yakubu, who said the actor died on Sunday in Abuja.
Yakubu disclosed that Akiyesi “slept and did not wake up,” noting that his remains have been deposited in a mortuary in the Federal Capital Territory, while the guild awaits further information from the family.
Akiyesi was part of the early generation of Nollywood actors who helped shape the industry’s formative years, earning recognition for roles in films such as Deadly Affair and other productions that defined the era.
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Though not always in the spotlight in recent years, his body of work contributed to the growth and evolution of Nigeria’s now globally recognised film industry.
Tributes are expected from colleagues, industry stakeholders, and fans, as Nollywood reflects on the legacy of an actor whose career spanned a significant period in its development.