PORT HARCOURT, Nigeria – Elizabeth Evoeme, the esteemed actress known as Ovularia from the beloved 1980s TV series “The New Masquerade,” has died at the age of 81.
The celebrated performer passed away in Port Harcourt, the capital of Rivers State, on Sunday, May 5, 2024.
The Evoeme Emekalam family released a statement expressing their sorrow and extending their gratitude to her fans, friends, and colleagues for their steadfast support.
The statement emphasised their request for privacy during this difficult time: “Friends, fans, colleagues, and the family of the legendary actress Elizabeth Lizzy ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme would like to notify the public and all those who loved her and her work in ‘The New Masquerade’ of her passing.”
The family continued, “We thank you all for your support and for respecting our privacy at this time. God bless you all, and may our dear Elizabeth ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme rest in perfect peace, now and always.”
Ovularia’s daughter, Justina Ngozi Evoeme, who resides in London, described her mother’s passing as both painful and shocking.
This loss comes after false rumours of Evoeme’s death circulated in 2019, which were later refuted by the actress herself.
At the time, she addressed the rumours, dismissing claims of serious illness and criticizing those spreading misinformation.
Elizabeth Evoeme’s career spanned several decades, during which she not only shone in “The New Masquerade” but also demonstrated her acting versatility in various stage and screen roles.
Her contribution to the Nigerian entertainment industry leaves a lasting legacy that will be cherished and remembered by many.
