Tag: Allwell Ademola

The year 2025 will be remembered in Nigeria not only for major political and social milestones, but also for the deep sense of loss following the deaths of many distinguished personalities. 

From January to December, every sector of national life, politics, public service, traditional institutions, religion, media, sports, academia and the creative arts, was touched, as voices that once shaped policy, culture and community life fell silent, underscoring the fragility of life and the power of legacy.

As the year closes today, Nigerians reflect on the lives of elder statesmen, reformers, monarchs, icons and quiet achievers whose service spanned national and local spaces.

Reporting month by month, Samuel Oamen, lists losses across fields, reminding the country that beyond how these figures died, their enduring contributions continue to shape Nigeria’s evolving story

1. January

Rabi’atu Sifawa died on January 6, in a tragic house fire that also claimed the lives of her children and house help. She was the daughter of the Secretary to the Sokoto State Government, and her death drew widespread sympathy across the state.

Ajose Adeogun passed away on January 12. A veteran Lagos APC leader and former Head of Service, he was remembered for decades of public service and political commitment to Lagos State.

Adewunmi Oriyomi Onanuga died on January 15. She served as the Deputy Chief Whip of Nigeria’s House of Representatives, representing constituencies in Ogun State until her death.

Edna Ibru died on January 15. A former Miss Nigeria and one-time First Lady of Delta State, she was widely admired for her warmth and strong community presence.

Jeremiah Timbut Useni passed away on January 23. The retired lieutenant general was a former FCT minister and a notable political figure who also contested for governor.

Actor Asa Koko died on January 30, after a prolonged illness lasting over two years.

Ademola Ambode died on January 31. He was a Lagos grassroots political mobiliser and brother to former Lagos State Governor, Akinwunmi Ambode.

2. February

Actress Patience “Pat” Ugwu, popularly called “Sugar Girl,” died on February 5, at age 35. Known for roles in films like Lack of Money (2018) and Port-Harcourt Lady (2019), Ugwu was also a fitness coach and beauty entrepreneur.

Columbus Irosanga died on February 6. He was a senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt’s Theatre Arts Department, was known for portraying native doctors’ roles in movies.

Ayo Adebanjo died on February 14. The Yoruba nationalist and Afenifere leader was revered as an elder statesman and a strong voice for restructuring and democracy.

Solomon Ayodeji-Otegbola passed away on February 15. He was a seasoned public servant and PDP stalwart in Ogun State.

Chief Edwin Clark died on February 17. The influential Niger Delta leader was a relentless advocate for resource control and regional equity.

Tom Adaba passed away on February 22. A pioneer in Nigerian broadcasting, he served as the first Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission.

Anike Agbaje-Williams died peacefully on February 26, in Ibadan at 88. She made history as the first face and voice on African television and radio in 1959.

3. March

Doyin Okupe passed away on March 7. He was a former presidential spokesman and an experienced political strategist in Nigeria’s Fourth Republic.

Nkechi Nweje passed away on March 21. The Nollywood actress was remembered for her energetic performances and dedication to her craft.

Raphael Bassey passed away on March 29. He was an Akwa Ibom public servant noted for his advocacy in education development.

4. April

Yekini Adeojo died on April 4. The PDP chieftain was a prominent grassroots politician from Oyo State.

Omololu Olunloyo passed away on April 6. A former governor of Oyo State, he was also a respected mathematician and academic.

Pascal Dozie died on April 8. He was the founder of Diamond Bank and a pioneer of modern banking in Nigeria.

Christian Chukwu passed away on April 10. The former Green Eagles captain and coach remained one of Nigeria’s most iconic football figures.

Bolaji Olanrewaju died on April 19. A gospel singer and Pastor pass away at the age of 50 after a brief illness.

5. May

Kolade Akindayomi died on May 4. He was a religious leader known for his spiritual influence and community service.

Omoniyi Caleb Olubolade passed away in May. He served as a former military administrator and later as a minister in Nigeria.

6. June

Justice Daniel Dantsoho Abutu died on June 3, 2025. He was a retired jurist who contributed significantly to Nigeria’s legal system.

Jibril Aminu passed away on June 5. An accomplished academic, he served Nigeria as a senator and federal minister.

Mohammed Lawal Uwais died on June 6. The former Chief Justice of Nigeria was widely respected for judicial reforms.

Mike Ejeagha passed away on June 6. The highlife legend was revered as a custodian of Igbo musical heritage.

Solape Abolarin died on June 9. She was a passionate education advocate and community leader.

Jesutega Onokpasa passed away on June 9. He was a political commentator and prominent APC figure.

Cornelius Olatunji Adebayo passed away on June 25. He was a former governor and federal minister.

Kayode Peters,  a filmmaker and producer died on June 28, in Toronto, Canada, after a long battle with illness.

7. July

Peter Rufai passed away on July 3. The former Super Eagles goalkeeper was an AFCON champion and Nigerian football icon.

Monday Sinclair died on July 16. He was a former footballer and coach who contributed to grassroots development.

Aminu Dantata died on July 28. The Kano-based businessman was widely respected for philanthropy and enterprise.

Read Also: Biola Bayo reacts to sudden loss of Allwell Ademola

8. August

Dr Doyin Abiola died on August 5. She was a veteran journalist and former Managing Director of National Concord.

Audu Ogbeh passed away on August 9. The former minister and PDP chairman played key roles in Nigeria’s political history.

Muhammadu Buhari died on August 13. Nigeria’s former president and military leader left a lasting imprint on national governance.

Sikiru Kayode Adetona passed away on August 13. The Awujale of Ijebuland was one of Nigeria’s longest-reigning and most respected monarchs.

Olusegun Akinremi, better known as Chief Kanran, died on August 15. A veteran actor celebrated for his humor and commanding presence, left a decades-long legacy on stage and screen.

Isyaku Ibrahim passed away on August 18. He was a business leader and influential northern community figure.

Reginald Carroll died on August 24. He was known for his service in public administration.

Ahuja Bello passed away on August 25. The juju music maestro was a strong cultural voice in Nigerian music.

Solomon Arase died on August 30. The former Inspector-General of Police was recognised for police reforms.

9. September

Grace Adayilo died on September 1. She was a respected community advocate.

Leila Fowler passed away on September 6. She was known for humanitarian and education philanthropy.

Comedian Adetola Samad, known as “Sanku,” died on September 1, in a car accident in Oyo State.

Olorogun Oscar Ibru died on September 24. The businessman was a key member of the prominent Ibru family.

Arise TV anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, affectionately called “Sommie,” tragically died on September 29, during an armed robbery at her Abuja home.

10. October

Uma Ukpai passed away on October 6. He was a renowned evangelist and interdenominational leader.

Christopher Kolade died on October 8. The diplomat and corporate statesman served Nigeria in public and private sectors.

11. November

Ifeoluwa Akindayomi died on November 2. He was an RCCG pastor and community leader.

Abdullahi Mohammed passed away on November 5. The retired major general also served as a senior civil servant.

Hajiya Saratu Shagari died on November 10. She was Nigeria’s former First Lady.

Dan Agbese passed away on November 17. The veteran journalist was widely respected for his fearless commentary.

Segun Awolowo died on November 20. He was an economist and former NEPC Director-General.

Bayo Osiyemi passed away on November 21. He was a journalist and Lagos political figure.

Nemuel Abubakar Babba died on November 24. He served as Archbishop Emeritus of the Lutheran Church.

Oba Philip Adegboyega Famodun III died on November 28. He was a respected traditional ruler in Ondo State.

12. December

Prof. Abdulgafar Siyan Oyeweso died on December 2. He was a respected historian and scholar.

John Ajayi passed away on December 10. He was an education administrator.

Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo died on December 11. He was the deputy governor of Bayelsa.

Tunde Ponle passed away on December 14. The media executive was known for his journalism career.

Tanko Muhammad died on December 16. He served as Chief Justice of Nigeria.

Peter Nwaoboshi passed away on December 19. He was a former senator who represented Delta North.

Aminu Sa’ad Ungogo died on December 24. He was a respected Islamic cleric.

Sarki Aliyu Daneji passed away on December 24. The traditional ruler was known for civic leadership.

Allwell Ademola died on December 27. The Nollywood actress and producer reportedly passed away after a heart attack.

The Nigerian entertainment industry, particularly Nollywood, has faced a heartbreaking wave of losses in 2025, spanning film, music, comedy, and broadcasting.

From veteran actors to emerging broadcasters, these deaths have sparked widespread grief among fans, colleagues, and industry leaders, drawing attention to ongoing concerns over health, road safety, and security in the country.

Here is a record of 11 notable celebrities who passed away in 2025, leaving behind lasting legacies, cherished memories, and profound sorrow:

1. Actor Asa Koko: He died on January 30, after a prolonged illness lasting over two years. Filmmaker Kunle Afod announced his death on Instagram, paying tribute to the actor known for his contributions to the Yoruba film genre.

2. Actress Patience “Pat” Ugwu, popularly called “Sugar Girl,” died on February 5 at age 35. Known for roles in films like Lack of Money (2018) and Port-Harcourt Lady (2019), Ugwu was also a fitness coach and beauty entrepreneur.

3. Veteran actor Columbus Irosanga: Famed for portraying native doctors and a senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt’s Theatre Arts Department, passed away on February 6.

4. Broadcasting pioneer Anike Agbaje-Williams died peacefully on February 26 in Ibadan at 88. She made history as the first face and voice on African television and radio in 1959.

Read Also: Biola Bayo reacts to sudden loss of Allwell Ademola

5. Nkechi Nweje: The actress succumbed on March 21st following complications from surgery.

6. Gospel singer and Pastor Bolaji Olanrewaju, known as “Big Bolaji,” died at 50 on April 19 after a brief illness.

7. Filmmaker and producer Kayode Peters’ died on June 28 in Toronto, Canada, after a long battle with illness.

8. Actor Olusegun Akinremi, better known as Chief Kanran, died on August 15. Celebrated for his humor and commanding presence, he left a decades-long legacy on stage and screen.

9. Comedian Adetola Samad, known as “Sanku,” died on September 1 in a car accident in Oyo State.

10. 29-year-old Arise TV anchor Somtochukwu Christelle Maduagwu, affectionately called “Sommie,” tragically died on September 29 during an armed robbery at her Abuja home.

Reports indicate she fell from her third-floor apartment while attempting to escape the intruders.

11. Actress and producer Allwell Ademola died on December 27. The 49-year-old (as confirmed by her family, correcting earlier reports of 43) suffered a heart attack. Hours earlier, she had shared a video on Instagram praying to see the end of the year, a post that has since resonated deeply with mourners.

These losses have prompted reflections on the fragility of life in the spotlight and calls for better support systems within the industry. Tributes have flooded social media, with colleagues expressing shock and sorrow. 

The family of actress Allwell Ademola has released an official statement confirming her death, following reports that she passed away on Saturday night, December 27, 2025.

The statement, shared by her friend and colleague, Rotimi Salami, clarified that Ademola was 49 years old at the time of her death.

This followed earlier reports within the entertainment industry, which had claimed that the actress died at the age of 43 after reportedly suffering a heart attack at her residence before being taken to the hospital.

The family expressed appreciation for the outpouring of love, prayers, and condolence messages from colleagues, friends, and well-wishers, noting that the support has been a great source of strength during the difficult period.

Read Also: Muyiwa Ademola seeks forgiveness in tribute to late cousin, Allwell Ademola

In the statement signed by Adegboyega Adebayo, the family described Ademola as a gifted and passionate creative who touched many lives through her art, talent and dedication to the creative industry.

The statement reads, “On Behalf of the Ademola family, with heavy hearts and total submission to the will of God, we announce the passing of our beloved sister, mother, and aunt, Princess Allwell Ademola, who departed this life on Saturday, the 27th day of December, 2025, at the age of 49.

“Princess Allwell Ademola, a proud daughter of the great Ademola Family of Ogun State (Great-granddaughter of ALAKE of Egba land), who was a gifted and passionate creative. From childhood until her passing, she distinguished herself as a thespian, actor, singer, and filmmaker, touching many lives through her art, talent, and unwavering dedication to the creative industry.

“The Ademola family sincerely appreciates the overwhelming love, prayers, and messages of condolence from her colleagues, friends, and well-wishers across the world during this difficult time. Your support has been a great source of strength to us.

“May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace, and may God grant us all the fortitude to bear this irreparable loss.

“Further details regarding burial arrangements will be communicated in due course. Signed, Adegboyega Adebayo, For the Ademola family.”

Tributes have continued to pour in for the Nollywood actress and producer, Allwell Ademola, who passed away on Saturday, December 27, 2025.

The actress passed away at the age of 43 .

She was said to have died at the Ancilla Hospital Agege, Lagos, after suffering a heart attack at her residence

Reacting to her death, Faithia Williams, a fellow actress, expressed her shock on social media, writing, “Haaaa. This hit me so bad. Eniobanke. Allahu Akbar..Allwell”.

Mide Martins, another colleague, shared a photo of Ademola on Facebook, saying, “Kabiosi Eledumare. Our ever playful, joyful, cheerful, lively all well is gone!! God this is too heartbreaking!!!!”

Another colleague, Damola Olatunji, posted a candlelight image with the caption:

“Life is a mirage.”

READ ALSO: No place for terrorists, kidnappers in Kwara, says Abdulrazaq as forest guards end training

Actress, Bidemi Kosoko, expressed disbelief at the reports, saying: “No way. No, no,, no. Ko possible ooo. This isn’t true. God forbid, in Jesus’ name.

“I refuse to accept this one Lai Lai God forbid. Olorun oni je. Just reply to my message, abeg Oremi/ aunty mi. I will wait patiently for your reply.”

Ademola was a respected figure in Nollywood, known for her work in films like “You or I” and “Omo Emi”.

She was also a talented singer and scriptwriter, and her production company, Allwell Ademola Production, produced several hit movies.

The cause of her death has not been officially confirmed, and an investigation is ongoing.

Allwell-Ademola was one of the grand-daughters of the late Sir Adetokunbo Ademola, a respected Nigerian lawyer and chief justice.

She  helped stirred the careers of several actors, including Rotimi Salami.

Following the death of renowned actress, producer, and singer, Allwell Ademola, at the age of 43, The Nation has compiled 10 things to know about the late celebrity. 

As reported, Ademola died on Saturday, December 27, 2025, due to a heart attack, and is survived by her legacy of impactful performances and contributions to Nigerian cinema.

Below are 10 things to know about her: 

1. Early Life and Education: Allwell Ademola was born on August 9, 1982, in Lagos, Nigeria, to a royal family in Abeokuta, Ogun State. She is the granddaughter of Nigeria’s first Chief Justice, Adetokunbo Ademola.

2. Career: Ademola started her acting career as a child on NTA’s “Animal Games” in 1986 and officially joined Nollywood in 1992. She is known for her versatility in acting, producing, and directing Yoruba and English films.

READ ALSO; Actress Lizzy Gold mourns father’s death on Boxing Day

3. Music: Ademola is also a talented singer and formed her own band, “Allwell and Company,” in 2002, releasing an album in 2006.

4. Awards and Recognition: She has won several awards, including Best Supporting Actress at the 2016 Best of Nollywood Awards for her role in “Hakunde”.

5. Notable Works: Some of her notable films include “You or I” (2013), “Omo Emi” (2017), and “Ile Wa” (2018).

6. Personal Life: Ademola was engaged to be married, but her fiancé was tragically killed two months before their wedding. She has since remained single.

7. Education: Ademola studied Dramatic Arts at Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Osun State.

8. Philanthropy: She is involved in charity work and uses her platform to raise awareness about social issues in Nigeria.

9. Legacy: Ademola’s contributions to Nollywood have been significant, and her work continues to inspire and entertain audiences.

10. Last Message: Her final Instagram video, where she sang about seeing the end of the year, became poignant after her death.