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| Lost Celebrities |
Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been plunged into mourning following the deaths of four personalities who made their marks across music, film, television and personal development.
The deaths occurred within a short period, leaving colleagues, fans and loved ones grieving the loss of figures who contributed in different ways to Nigeria’s creative and cultural landscape.
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| Saint Janet |
Saint Janet Dies After Brief Illness
The first major loss was the death of Iyun Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, a juju musician recognised for her energetic performances and distinctive musical style.
Saint Janet combined elements of traditional juju and highlife music with street expressions and humour, helping to create a style that made her stand out among her peers.
She died on August 1, 2026, following a brief illness.
Her passing generated tributes from fans, fellow entertainers and socialites, many of whom remembered her as a colourful and unconventional personality in the entertainment scene.
Actress Temitope Osoba Dies at 40
The industry suffered another setback with the death of Yoruba actress Temitope Osoba at the age of 40.
News of Osoba’s death was announced by her colleagues on Wednesday, August 5.
The actress had previously spoken publicly about her experience with cancer, describing the period as a significant and transformative chapter in her life. Following her recovery, she announced her return to the movie industry in 2025.
Her experience also encouraged her to promote greater awareness of cancer and support for people dealing with the disease.
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| Temitope Osoba |
Temitope Osoba
According to a burial announcement shared on her official Instagram page, Osoba is scheduled to be buried on Thursday, August 13, 2026, in Iperu Remo, Ogun State.
The funeral service is expected to take place at Saint James Anglican Church, Iperu Remo, followed by her interment at Iperu Remo Cemetery.
Her family has requested that mourners wear white for the funeral.
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| Dimbo Atiya |
Filmmaker Dimbo Atiya Dies at 53
While the industry was still processing the loss of Osoba, news emerged of the death of filmmaker Dimbo Atiya at the age of 53.
Atiya was regarded as an influential figure in Nigeria’s television and film production space. His credits included productions such as Sons of the Caliphate, Halita and The Rishantes.
Actors, producers and other industry professionals paid tribute to the filmmaker, remembering him not only for his work but also for his role as a storyteller, mentor and creative influence.
His death represented another significant loss to Nigeria’s film and television industry.
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| Coach Lara |
Coach Lara
The wave of grief deepened with the death of Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh, popularly known as Coach Lara.
Coach Lara was a relationship expert and media personality and was married to relationship expert and media personality Teddy Don-Momoh.
Her death added to an already difficult period for Nigeria’s entertainment community, with friends, colleagues and admirers mourning her passing.
Four Losses, One Difficult Week
The deaths of Saint Janet, Temitope Osoba, Dimbo Atiya and Coach Lara have created a sombre atmosphere across Nigeria’s entertainment industry.
Although the four personalities worked in different areas, their careers and public contributions touched different parts of Nigeria’s creative sector.
Their passing has consequently been felt across music, Yoruba cinema, television production, media and personal development.
As tributes continue to emerge, colleagues and fans have been remembering the four personalities for the work they produced, the people they influenced and the legacies they leave behind.
The entertainment industry is once again being reminded of the fragility of life, as four notable figures are mourned within the space of just a few days.