NNEWI, Nigeria – The Nigerian film industry is in mourning following the death of one of its most beloved figures, Amaechi Muonagor, who passed away at the age of 61.
Muonagor, a revered actor in Nollywood, reportedly died on Sunday, March 24, 2024,, leaving behind a legacy that spanned decades in the entertainment world.
In the days leading up to his death, Muonagor battled with severe health issues, including kidney failure, for which he was undergoing dialysis. Compounding his health woes, the actor was also battling diabetes and had previously suffered a stroke.
The news of Muonagor’s demise came shortly after a poignant appeal for financial assistance went viral.
In the video, fellow actor Kingsley Orji made an impassioned plea for funds to facilitate Muonagor’s kidney transplant in India.
Speaking through his Instagram account on Sunday, Orji revealed the depth of Muonagor’s struggles, stating that the actor had been discharged from the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) at Nnewi Teaching Hospital due to a lack of funds.
According to Orji, “He has been in this condition for months now… He barely talks well. Please, he needs your help.”
At the time of Muonagor’s death, the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), the professional body representing Nollywood actors, had yet to make an official statement.
Similarly, Muonagor’s family has remained silent on the matter.
Muonagor’s passing marks another significant loss for Nollywood, coming weeks after the death of another iconic figure, John Okafor, popularly known as Mr. Ibu.
The back-to-back losses of such towering personalities have cast a pall over Nigeria’s film industry, reflecting on the challenges faced by its members, both in terms of health and financial security.
As tributes pour in for Muonagor, his contributions to Nollywood and the vibrant characters he brought to life on screen will not be forgotten.
