Nigerian celebrity deaths that shook entertainment industry in 2022

The entertainment industry lost some of its brightest stars in 2022. The death of gospel musician, Sammie Okposo was the latest.

The industry, which has produced great icons, was in 2022 hit with the death of young and energetic entertainers who displayed exceptional talent.

Some of the veterans lost their lives either from unforeseen circumstances or chronic illnesses.

Ada Ameh

On July 17, 2022, at the age of 48, Ada Ameh passed away in Warri Delta State.

The actress, who had battled depression, had visited a family in the State when she suddenly collapsed. She was rushed to the hospital but was confirmed dead.

Ameh was born May 15, 1974, and spent more than two decades in the Nigerian movie industry. She suffered depression after the death of her daughter and some members of her family.

She was most notable for her character as Anita in the 1996 movie titled, “Domitilla”, and as Emu Johnson in the award winning Nigerian television series titled, “The Johnsons”.

Sammie Okposo

Sammie Okposo, a popular gospel singer died on November 25, 2022. The ‘wellu wellu crooner was said to have died in his sleep at his residence in Lagos State. The 51-year-old, who had apologised for extra marital affairs months before his death, was laid to rest at a private cemetery in Ikoyi, Lagos State.

Osinachi Nwachukwu

The death of Osinachi Nwachukwu shocked the world after it was reported that the ‘Ekwueme singer’ died of domestic violence. Osinachi’s unfortunate death occurred after she was allegedly battered by her husband.

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Osinachi’s husband was alleged to have beaten her and kicked her in the chest which landed her in the hospital. It was also alleged that Osinachi died of throat cancer but it was debunked by her family. The matter is now in court where the husband is being tried.

The mother of three was buried on June 25, 2022, while her husband is still in custody.

Leonard Onyemachi

Leonard Onyemachi, a seasoned actor, passed away on Saturday May 14, 2022, after battling with kidney disease.

The actor, who rose to stardom after performing in the Nollywood blockbuster movie “Labista” had undergone a kidney transplant four years ago but succumbed to the disease in 2022.

Chinedu Nwadike

Gospel Minister, Chinedu Nwadike passed away March 27, 2022, after battling an unknown illness.

He was popularly known for his hit songs “Marry me’ and ‘God of vengeance’.

Romanus Amuta

Renowned Nollywood actor, Romanus Amuta died on February 10, 2022. The veteran died after a protracted illness.

He was popularly known for his role as Natty in the sitcom ‘New Masquerade’.

Chinedu Bernard

On April 29, 2022, a fast-rising Nollywood actress, Chinedu Bernard slumped and died while cleaning St Leo the Great Catholic Church in Enugu State.

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It is unknown what caused her death.

Rico Swavey

Famous ex-Big Brother Naija star, Patrick Fakoya died on 13th October after a ghastly motor accident. Rico’s death took his fans by storm as he was known to be peaceful.

The 29-year-old was in coma for two days and was buried at Ebony vault in Ikoyi Lagos State.