The Nigerian film industry has been struck with sorrow and disbelief as it mourns the recent loss of several Nollywood stars and a talented sound engineer. The string of deaths has left the industry in a state of shock.

Within a span of less than two weeks, five actors—Mukaila Adedigba (also known as Sikiru Adeshina), Obinna Nwafor (popularly known as Saint Obi), Murphy Afolabi, Wunmi Olowokandi, and Chikezie Uwazie—have passed away, as reported by Nigeria’s Daily Post. Additionally, the Nollywood sound engineer, known as Techno Sound, also tragically lost his life during this short period.

Nwafor, who had been battling a prolonged illness, passed away on May 7 at his sibling’s residence in Jos, Plateau State, according to the Daily Post. The 57-year-old actor, renowned for his roles in movies like “State of Emergency,” “Candle Light,” and “Festival of Fire,” will be deeply missed.

On Monday, the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners’ Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) announced the passing of Adedigba. However, the cause of his death was not disclosed. Adedigba, a Yoruba actor who appeared in notable films such as “Bolode o’ku” and “Edunjobi,” passed away on May 13, as reported by Nigerian newspaper Vanguard.

Tragically, Afolabi slipped and fell in the bathroom of his residence in Ikorodu, Lagos, on the morning of May 14, resulting in his untimely demise at the age of 49, as stated in India’s Economic Times. Afolabi, a celebrated Yoruba actor known for his contributions to movies like “Okiki Oru,” “Blackout,” and “Four Lions,” succumbed to his injuries.

Details surrounding Techno Sound’s passing remain scarce. The sound technician, whose demise occurred on May 14, was reported by Vanguard, but no further information was provided.

Furthermore, it was reported that Olowokandi passed away the following evening, though details regarding her age and the cause of her death are currently unknown. Coinciding with this tragic event, Uwazie, while in the United States, lost his life after undergoing a second brain surgery, as reported by the Daily Post. Uwazie, recognized for his appearances in films like “Super Love,” “Tell Me Why,” and “Only Love,” according to IMDb, will be remembered fondly by the industry.

The Nigerian film industry now grapples with the immense loss of these talented individuals, leaving behind a void that will be difficult to fill.

“These sad incidences necessitate another clarion call to all members of our association and Nigerian artists, in general, to pay close attention to their health,” TAMPAN president Bolaji Amusan said in a statement, according to Vanguard.

“It is also very important at this time to admonish all individuals within the creative sector in Nigeria to create time for recreation and take time off once in a while from work.”