Nollywood hit by another loss as Atinuke Kareem dies after prolonged cancer battle

The Yoruba movie industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of Nollywood actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, who passed away after battling breast cancer.

Kareem’s death was announced on Tuesday by the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN).

The announcement was made by the association’s Executive Governor in the state, Owolabi Ajasa.

The actress had earlier appealed to the public for financial support to help her continue treatment for the illness.

Her death comes barely two weeks after the passing of veteran Nollywood actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, adding to the recent losses recorded in the Yoruba film industry.

In a video released alongside the announcement, Kareem spoke about the financial strain her illness had placed on her family and appealed to members of the public to support her treatment.

“I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help. The association I belong to, TAMPAN, has tried too, but it’s not enough,” she said.

She also appealed to Nigerians to assist her, stressing that she had two young children.

“Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help,” Kareem said.

Confirming her death, TAMPAN Ogun State expressed appreciation to individuals who contributed towards her treatment and offered prayers and encouragement during her illness.

In a statement signed by the association’s Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, TAMPAN acknowledged the support extended to Kareem and her family.

“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,” the statement said.

The association described the contributions as significant to the actress and her family during her period of illness.

“Your kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant so much to her family and all of us. We are deeply grateful,” it added.

TAMPAN said Kareem eventually succumbed to the illness despite efforts to support her treatment.

“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call,” the statement said.

The association condoled with Kareem’s family, colleagues and loved ones, while praying for strength for them to cope with the loss.

“We cannot question the Almighty God. We can only submit to His will and pray that He grants her eternal rest and gives her family, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss,” it added.

Kareem’s death comes at a difficult time for the Yoruba movie industry, which is still mourning Ogogo, who died recently after reportedly battling stage-four cancer.

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