The Nigerian movie industry has been thrown into mourning following the reported death of Nollywood actress Temitope Osoba, whose passing was announced on Wednesday.
The heartbreaking news has left colleagues, fans, and admirers in shock, with many reflecting on what has now become her final WhatsApp status, shared just hours before her reported demise.
One of her admirers and a member of Baba Ara International Fans Club, in Facebook post on Wednesday described actress Osoba as a gifted performer and devoted Celestial Christian.
“Today, we mourn the passing of Temitope Osoba, a gifted actress, a devoted Celestial Christian, and a remarkable soul whose life touched many hearts,” the statement read.
“We, at the Baba Ara International Fans Club, extend our deepest and most heartfelt condolences to the Nollywood community and the entire Osoba family during this painful time.”
The club praised Osoba for the impact she made both on screen and off screen, noting that her warmth and faith endeared her to colleagues and fans alike.
“Her passing is a profound loss, and her legacy will continue to live on through the lives she touched and the memories she created,” the group added.
It also called for prayers and strength for the bereaved family.
“May God grant her family, friends, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this irreplaceable loss. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace. May her memory be a blessing to all who knew and loved her.”
Actress Damilola Oni in her social media post said the late colleague would be greatly missed.
However, those close to the late actress, Osoba said she posted the words “OGO TUNTUN”—a Yoruba phrase meaning “New Glory”—on her WhatsApp status on Tuesday evening.
Following news of her death, the post has drawn widespread attention, with many interpreting it as a poignant farewell message.
Nollywood actor Alesh Sanni was among the first to publicly mourn the actress, revealing that he was left speechless by the news.
“I couldn’t sleep. We shared amazing moments and beautiful memories together. Rest well. I’m short of words,” he wrote in a heartfelt tribute.
Actress Foluke Daramola-Salako also confirmed the sad news by sharing a post announcing Osoba’s passing alongside a mourning emoji.
Further details surrounding the actress’s final moments were shared by an unidentified woman who claimed she called Osoba’s phone after learning of her death.
According to her account, a woman who answered the call confirmed that the actress had passed away. When she mentioned seeing the “OGO TUNTUN” WhatsApp status posted around 7 p.m., the woman reportedly explained that Osoba made the post while she was being rushed to the hospital.
“When I heard about Tope Osoba’s demise, I called her number and a woman picked. She confirmed Tope had passed away. I then told the woman that she posted ‘OGO TUNTUN’ on her WhatsApp status at about 7 p.m. The woman said it was when they were rushing her to the hospital that she posted that status in the car,” she reportedly said.
The revelation has since sparked an outpouring of emotions across social media, with many describing the message as symbolic of her transition.
One user, @ayamwealth, wrote, “Indeed a new glory. She transitioned to heaven after she saw the light.”
Another, @aquamarine_beautyhaven, commented, “Life is fickle. Even the next minute is not promised.”
Other mourners simply expressed their grief, with one writing, “It’s well,” while another said, “Oh my God, may her soul rest in peace.”
Before her passing, Osoba had spoken publicly about her health struggles. In an interview with Oyinmomo TV, the actress revealed her battle with cancer, disclosing that doctors informed her she would be unable to conceive for at least five years due to the medication she was receiving.
She admitted that the news deeply affected her emotionally, especially as she was approaching her 40s and had hoped to start a family sooner.
While celebrating her 40th birthday, the actress reflected on surviving cancer, describing the experience as life-changing.
“I carry the scars, but I also carry the lessons,” she said, adding that surviving the illness made her appreciate life in a completely different way.
One of the most memorable moments from her milestone birthday was when actress Foluke Daramola-Salako surprised her with a car. A video shared online captured an emotional Osoba breaking down in tears as she expressed gratitude for the gesture and the support she received from her colleague.
As tributes continue to pour in, colleagues and fans have remembered Temitope Osoba not only for her talent on screen but also for her resilience, courage, and inspiring journey through life’s challenges. Her final message, “OGO TUNTUN,” has become a touching symbol of hope and remembrance for many mourning her loss.
