Veteran ‘New Masquerade’ Actor Clarus Dies At 85

Veteran Nollywood actor, Davis Ofor, popularly known for his iconic role as Clarus in the classic sitcom ‘New Masquerade’, has died at the age of 85.

News of his passing was announced on Tuesday by fellow actor Tony Akposheri in an emotional Instagram post, where he expressed shock and grief over the loss.

Akposheri revealed that he had recently spent time with the late actor during the New Year celebrations, describing their last moments together as filled with laughter, reflection, and hope.

“Today, my heart is heavy. Davis Ofor, fondly known as Clarus from New Masquerade, is gone,” he wrote.

“We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead.

“We spoke about life, about plans, about how far we had come. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you.”

Paying tribute, Akposheri described Ofor as more than just a screen figure, highlighting his warmth and personality.

“You were more than a familiar face on screen. You were a friend, a brother, a man with warmth, humour, and a presence that could light up any space,” he added.

“It is hard to believe that the voice I heard not long ago is now a memory. Hard to accept that someone so full of life can suddenly become a story we tell.

“Rest well, my friend. You came, you gave joy, you made your mark, and you will never be forgotten.”

Ofor rose to national prominence through his role as Clarus in ‘New Masquerade’, a widely acclaimed comedy series that aired on the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) in the 1980s. His portrayal of the witty and often troublesome character endeared him to audiences across Nigeria, making ‘Clarus’ a household name and one of the most memorable figures in the country’s television history.