The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of popular Yoruba actress Temitope Osoba, who has passed away at the age of 40.

News of her demise was confirmed on Wednesday by fellow Nollywood actor Alesh Sanni, who shared an emotional tribute on Instagram. The actor expressed shock over the loss, revealing that he had been unable to sleep since hearing the heartbreaking news.

He wrote, “Couldn’t sleep since last night. It’s well. Rest in peace, my dearest sister, Temitope Osoba. We had an amazing time and good memories together. Till we meet again. I really don’t know what to say, gosh.”

Actress Adeyemo Seilat, popularly known as Seilat Adebowale, also paid tribute to the late actress, lamenting the growing number of young lives being cut short.

She wrote, “Sigh! I hate to hear about the death of young people. Life is vanity! Rest in peace, Tope Osoba. May you find eternal rest.”

The cause of Temitope Osoba’s death has not been made public.

Her passing comes nearly two years after she publicly revealed her battle with cancer, a health challenge that prompted an appeal for financial support toward her treatment. Following her recovery, Osoba returned to the movie industry in August 2025 with a renewed sense of purpose, saying the experience had transformed her life.

At the time, she said, “Dear beloved fans, supporters, and loved ones, I’m Temitope Osoba, and after my cancer experience, I’m excited to announce my reintroduction. This journey has been a turning point, leading to my rebranding, reshaping, and rebuilding. I’m emerging stronger, more resilient, and more passionate about sharing my story and inspiring others.”

She also pledged to use her platform to promote cancer awareness while thanking those who supported her recovery and expressing her readiness to resume acting and other professional engagements.

Widely recognised for her performances in Yoruba-language Nollywood productions, Temitope Osoba built a reputation as a gifted actress whose resilience inspired many after overcoming cancer. Her sudden death has left colleagues, fans and the Nigerian entertainment industry grieving the loss of a performer whose comeback had offered hope to many facing similar battles.

Source: Yvonne Nyarko Agyemang