Nigerian actor and content creator Odira Nwobu has died in South Africa at the age of 43, his lawyer and the Actors Guild of Nigeria confirmed to the BBC.
His death has shocked many Nigerians, leading to wide reactions online from fans and fellow actors.
Nwobu, known for his comedic roles and youthful look, appeared in more than 60 films and built a strong following on social media through his skits.
His family has not yet released a statement.
The cause of death is still unknown. His lawyer, Chukwujiekwu Chukwudi, said a coroner’s report is expected soon.
Videos showing the actor’s lifeless body circulated online on Monday, causing distress among fans.
According to his lawyer, an ambulance was called to Nwobu’s hotel room in Benoni, near Johannesburg, after he was found gasping for breath. Paramedics tried to revive him with a defibrillator but he died before he could be taken to hospital.
Born in Enugu State in 1982, Nwobu got his first movie role right after secondary school in a film titled Joseph the Dreamer.
Although he enjoyed success in Nollywood, he once said he felt typecast and turned to content creation for more creative freedom. Across TikTok, Instagram and YouTube, he gained hundreds of thousands of followers.
He was in South Africa on a promotional trip with other influencers for a Nigerian-owned real estate company. His lawyer, who is also the firm’s legal adviser, travelled with the team.
“We were shocked to receive calls from Nigeria to confirm the passing away of the young man, while we were still debating how to break the news to his family,” Mr Chukwudi said.
In July, Nwobu survived a road accident that previously sparked false rumours of his death.
Reports say the actor was not married and had no children.
