Exclusive News
Nollywood’s actor, Saint Obi, whose real name is Obinna Nwafor, passed away on 7th May after a prolonged illness
Many of his colleagues in the entertainment industry have been paying tribute to him in recognition of the role he played in developing the industry.
Though, his death is shrouded in mystery, as there has been no confirmation or denial from his family, but Saint Obi’s legacy as one of Nollywood’s finest and pioneer actors will be deeply missed by many.
The Actors Guild of Nigeria is yet to make a statement as the family reportedly has a minor disagreement which has stalled a formal announcement
Nonetheless, his fans have continued to pay their last respects to the veteran actor with the hashtags #RIP Saint Obi and #Obinna Nwafor on Twitter.
Stephanie, who starred alongside Saint Obi in several films in the early 2000s like ‘More than a Woman’, described his death as shocking and heartbreaking in her tribute.
‘‘Losing someone you know and have worked with can be incredibly difficult. I have worked with Saint on several movies, and it is so sad to hear of his passing. May God give his family the strength to bear this loss and endure the difficult times. Your work and impact will always be remembered. Rest in peace, Saint’’.
Similarly, Tchidi, in his tribute, expressed regrets about not fulfilling his lifelong desire to feature the late actor in his movies. The filmmaker also disclosed that Saint Obi turned down his offer to star him in three lead roles in three films.
In an Instagram post, RMD shared a photo of Saint Obi and recollected a heartwarming moment when he recommended the late actor to another friend, Zeb Ejiro, who happened to be one of the most prolific producers in the industry. RMD expressed his disbelief and shock over the sudden loss of his dear friend, confessing that he is still struggling to come to terms with the saddening news.
To TChidi Chikere the passing of his colleague, Saint Obi, who died after battling an illness is still like a mirage, as he expressed grief over it.
He added that the late actor had always pushed to hangout with him but he didn’t have the time and he regrets it.
In his words, Chikere said “Bro i just heard. I ve tried to call ur number since i heard it, so that you will pick and tell me this news is another press gimmick and lies..but no way..I dunno..! just dunno. I m just gonna talk. vent.maybe it will make me feel better..maybe it Il make me forgive myself for not creating the time when you wanted so much for us to hang out and catch up in January. Yourself, Ike and I.
“Maybe there is something more you would have told me face to face? I will never know… We spoke several times in January. You kept saying we hang out and catch up. I never created the time. I thought we had all the time in the world! Friends could always finish their busy schedule and still meet another day.
“So I thought. Phew! For that I am terribly sorry’ i offered you a movie role in February and you declined. You said you had put on weight and wanted to get back in shape before acting. You told me loads of stuff and how you love your children and how you wish you could see them…You didn’t sound like your old self.l felt you ‘ d lost your zeal for life. So i called a few days later and i offered you three lead roles in three movies which you declined. You refused to act. I was shocked.
“You said “Tee I Il come to the USA and we will do big things, I want to relaunch myself with something big” Those were your words…find now..today..suddenly.. what???
“You shared some..no, a lot of your pain. You told me stuff..Things that i am tempted to throw caution to the wind and tell the world. I mean, we’ve been friends since 2004 when you were my witness at my court wedding. But I hold my peace and let God.
“Brother, if this is true. .Sleep well Obinna Nwafor. Saint Obi. Agu White. Your legacy remains. Now you have peace. Someday . maybe i can tell your kids too..how much you love them. (For as many people as are going through a lot silently, may God console them, give them strength to find joy in themselves and heal them”.
