Nollywood actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem has died following a battle with breast cancer, throwing the Yoruba film industry into mourning.
According to Punch, her death was announced on Tuesday by her colleague and TAMPAN Ogun State executive governor, Owolabi Ajasa. The announcement was made in a statement shared on Instagram.
The announcement included an earlier video in which Kareem appealed to Nigerians for financial assistance and prayers. This was necessary as the cost of her treatment continued to rise.
“I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help,” she said.
Kareem explained that the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria had also supported her. However, more assistance was needed to continue her treatment.
“Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children,” she pleaded.
TAMPAN mourns Atinuke Kareem
In the statement signed by Ogun State TAMPAN Public Relations Officer Femi Solaja on behalf of Ajasa, the association thanked colleagues, fans and well-wishers who supported Kareem financially and emotionally during her illness.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,” the association said.
It added that the assistance offered during her illness meant a great deal to both Kareem’s family and members of the association.
Despite the efforts to support her treatment, TAMPAN confirmed that the actress eventually died.
“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call,” the statement said.
The association expressed condolences to her family, colleagues and loved ones. It also prayed for strength for those affected by the loss.
Another loss hits Yoruba film industry
Kareem’s death comes shortly after the Yoruba film industry mourned veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo. He died after battling stage-four cancer.
The two deaths within a short period have brought another wave of grief. This has affected practitioners and fans of the Yoruba movie industry.
Further details surrounding Kareem’s burial arrangements had yet to be announced at the time of the report.
