Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, popularly known as Aunty Ajara, has died after a prolonged battle with illness.
Her death was announced on Thursday by Nollywood director Tobi Oladele Teemony, also known as Tee Mony, in a statement shared 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,” the statement read.
Teemony disclosed that the late actress received immense love, prayers and financial support from kind-hearted individuals across the world during her illness.
“We are deeply grateful to everyone who stood by her with prayers, contributions, encouragement and compassion,” he added.
He also urged members of the public to stop sending donations to the account previously shared for her medical treatment, noting that further financial contributions were no longer required.
“Our thoughts and prayers are with her family, loved ones and everyone grieving this painful loss,” the statement added.
The announcement was accompanied by a video message from the actress’ elder brother, Ridwan Lasisi, who confirmed her passing.
“Good morning to you all. My name is Ridwan Lasisi. I am a brother to Ajara. The doctor confirmed to us this morning that Ajara has passed on,” he said.
He expressed appreciation to supporters, industry colleagues and well-wishers, while also appealing for donations to cease.
“We also use this opportunity to appeal to those sending money not to send it anymore. The one we are contributing for her sake is no more. Thank you so much. We do not want you to send money into that account again,” he added.
The sad news comes barely a week after Teemony and other Nollywood figures, including Ronke Oshodi Oke, publicly appealed for urgent financial assistance for the actress, citing a worsening medical condition despite ongoing treatment.
At the time, Teemony revealed that significant resources had already been spent on her care, with support from celebrities, actors and members of the public, but her health continued to deteriorate.
Earlier reports indicated that the small-screen actress was pregnant and battling a liver-related illness, with colleagues saying she had been placed on oxygen as her condition worsened.
Several Nollywood stars, including Wumi Toriola, Mide Martins, Afeez Owo and Ronke Oshodi Oke, had rallied support and appealed for prayers and financial assistance, sparking widespread concern and sympathy across the entertainment industry.
