Nollywood mourns movie director, Biyi Bandele

Another sad news has struck the Nollywood industry following the sidden death of popular direcyor, Biyi Bandele.

KFN reported hours ago that veteran Nigerian movie director Biyi Bandele died in Lagos.

The prolific filmmaker, who is also co-Director of Netflix’s debut Nigerian original series Blood Sisters’ died in Lagos, on Sunday, August 7, 2022, according to a statement released by his daughter.

“I am heartbroken to share the sudden and unexpected death on Sunday 7th of August in Lagos of my father Biyi Bandele,” Temi Bandele wrote on Facebook.

Biyi was a prodigiously talented writer and filmmaker as well as a loyal friend and beloved father. He was a storyteller to his bones, with an unblinking perspective, singular voice and wisdom which spoke boldly through all of his art, in poetry, novels, plays and on screen. He told stories which made a profound impact and inspired many all over the world. His legacy will live on through his work.

He was taken from us much too soon. He had already said so much so beautifully and had so much more to say’.

Mourning him, Nollywood actors/actresses, movie producers and more paid tribute to him.

Mo Abudu wrote, “It is with deep sadness that we commiserate with the family of Biyi Bandele who died on Sunday, 7th August 2022 in Lagos. Biyi worked with us at EbonyLife Media, directing several of our projects, including ‘Fifty’ (2015), ‘Blood Sisters’, episodes 1 & 2 (2002) and the forthcoming film Elesin Oba, The King’s Horseman, for which he wrote the screenplay. Elesin Oba will premiere at the Toronto International Film Festival in September. Biyi had an eye for a story, was always passionate about his work, and had a great love for Yoruba culture. We will miss his dedication, cheerful spirit and collaborative nature. Rest in peace, dear friend”.

Many celebrities mourned the award-winning director under Mo Abudu’s post.

Hilda Dokubo: My condolences. My prayer is for his family, friends and all who knew him to find grace to deal with this. May his soul rest in peace

Muyiwa Ademola: This is a sad news

Akah Nnani: Wow so so sad

Kate Henshaw: Nooooooo

Etim Effiong: This is so sad. He’ll be missed. RIP

Lala Akindoju: Our deepest condolences

Zainab Balogun: May his soul rest in peace

Bisola Aiyeola: May he Rest in Peace

Uche Jombo took to her Instagram page to mourn him.

She wrote, “I keep playing our last conversation! This hurts. Rest in peace uncle B”.

Kemi Filani news recalls that in July, Nollywood experienced two great losses.

Veteran actress Sola Awojobi Onayiga of Fuji House of Commotion reportedly died on Monday morning, July 18th.

In a report made available to the public by the Founder of Best of Nollywood Awards, Seun Oloketuyi, revealed that the actress died on Monday morning over a yet-to-be-known sickness.

Taking to Instagram, Seun Oloketuyi wrote: “I have just been informed that the accomplished Stage and Screen Actress and Fellow of Theatre Arts Auntie Sola Awojobi Onayiga has passed on.

Auntie Sola who is best known for living delightfully the role of Ireti aka Cooking practicals in the defunct television sitcom ‘CHECKMATE’! Reportedly passed on this morning.

Journey well Ma! Journey Well!

Posted by Dr shuaibu”.

Also, beloved actress Ada Ameh died on Sunday, July 17th, around 11 pm in Warri, Delta State.

Reports from multiple sources claimed Ameh was a guest of an oil company toyshop and his family when she suddenly collapsed.

Meanwhile, Ada Ameh’s last post on Instagram, which was at about 12.53 pm on Sunday, July 17, reads, “Happy new week fams. This trip for my friends elder sister, is just an enjoyment gallow!!! Thanks my darling sister phil. I really enjoyed myself!!. God bless my love. May dreams come true in Jesus Christ name “