Nollywood Actress ‘Aunty Ajara’ Dies After Illness

Nollywood has been thrown into mourning following the death of actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as ‘Aunty Ajara’, who passed away after a prolonged illness.

Her death was confirmed on Thursday by filmmaker, Tobi Oladele Teemony, who shared the news in a statement posted on Instagram.

“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,” Teemony wrote.

According to him, the late actress received “immense love, prayers, and financial support from kind-hearted people across the world” during her illness. He also expressed gratitude to all who supported her with donations and prayers.

“We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood by her with prayers, contributions, encouragement, and compassion,” he added. “Please note that financial contributions are no longer required, as donations for her treatment have now closed.”

Aunty Ajara’s brother, Ridwan Lasisi, also confirmed her passing in an emotional video message.

“The doctor confirmed to us this morning that Ajara has passed on. On behalf of the family, we thank everyone for their support. Please, do not send money to the account that was earlier shared for her treatment,” he said.

The actress’s death came barely a week after Teemony and other Nollywood figures, including Ronke Oshodi Oke, Wumi Toriola, Mide Martins, and Afeez Owo, made a public appeal for urgent financial assistance to support her medical treatment.

At the time, Teemony revealed that Ajara’s health had worsened despite ongoing care, noting that she had spent weeks on hospital admission battling a liver-related illness. Reports also indicated that she was pregnant and placed on oxygen support in her final days.

Aunty Ajara was known for her vibrant screen presence and comic roles in Yoruba Nollywood productions. Her death has drawn an outpouring of tributes from fans and colleagues, who described her as a “joyful spirit” and “dedicated professional.”

Details of her burial arrangements were yet to be announced by her family.