The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, has confirmed the passing of veteran Nollywood actress Atinuke Kareem after an extended battle with breast cancer.
Her death was formally announced on Tuesday by the Executive Governor of TAMPAN Ogun State, Owolabi Ajasa, in an official update shared on his verified Instagram account.
A final appeal for support and prayers
Accompanying the official statement was a poignant video clip recorded prior to her death, where the actress candidly discussed her medical struggles and pleaded for public assistance to cover her escalating healthcare costs.
In the recording, Kareem disclosed that despite significant financial sacrifices from her immediate family and contributions from TAMPAN, her treatment expenses far exceeded their resources.
She made a heart-wrenching plea to the public, asking for financial aid and prayers to support her recovery for the sake of her two young children.
TAMPAN expresses gratitude to supporters
A press release issued by the Ogun State TAMPAN Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Owolabi Ajasa, extended profound appreciation to colleagues, fans, and well-wishers who rallied around the late actress.
The statement acknowledged the collective efforts, donations, and prayers offered throughout her medical ordeal, emphasizing that the overwhelming show of kindness brought immense comfort to both the family and the broader acting community during a deeply challenging time.
A devastating blow to the Nigerian film industry
The association expressed profound sadness over the tragedy, noting that while members fought alongside her through prayers and resource mobilization, they ultimately submit to the will of God regarding her passing.
TAMPAN concluded its tribute by offering prayers for her soul and requesting strength and solace for her surviving family, colleagues, and loved ones.
This tragedy comes at a dark time for the Yoruba cinema sector, which lost another iconic figure, Taiwo “Ogogo” Hassan, to stage-four cancer just a week prior.
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