Actress Nkechi Nweje dies after brief illness

Actress Nkechi Nweje dies after brief illness

Actress Nkechi Nweje has died after a brief illness.

News of her death broke on Friday, with colleagues in the film industry taking to social media to express their grief and pay tribute to the late actress.

Actress Rita Edochie shared a candlelight image with a dark background on Instagram, captioning it, “This world is really not our home.”

Actor Stanley Ontop also mourned her, sharing photos of Nkechi and writing, “Nollywood in tears as we lost one of our vibrant Nollywood actresses @nkechi.nweje After a brief illness.

“Couldn’t post since morning because it was like a dream to me. Ezigbo Nwanyi Onitsha Rest in peace ma’am, my best friend, she always called me on the phone advising me.

“The last time we spoke was during the Queenth saga, she said, ‘Ontop stop.’”

Another mourner, Buchi Dortmund, wrote, “Today, my heart is heavy with sorrow as I say goodbye to my dear sister. Words cannot capture the depth of this pain, nor can they fully express the love I have for her. Rest in peace, Ezigbo Mrs Nkechi Nweje.”

Asa Ikuku added, “Rest in peace, mummy Nkechi Nweje TV (Nwanyi Onitsha). You are indeed a blessing to us. But God knows best. We will miss you so much, great Nollywood actress. Rest on, legend.”

Lilian Faith also shared her grief, writing, “Madam Nkechi Nweje, Aka Nwanyi Onitsha, I read from her supposed friend that she had been sick for a while and just died at the verge of recovery.

“This is not good! No wonder she has become scarce on screen. Kai! Goodnight Nwanyi Oma Onitsha, Onwu amaghi eme!”

Other Nollywood stars, including Destiny Etiko and Anita Joseph, also joined in mourning the actress.

Renowned for her compelling portrayals in Nollywood, particularly in motherly roles, Nkechi Nweje built a legacy in the industry through her outstanding performances.

She was married to Dr. Azuibuike Nweje and their union was blessed with six children including daughters Oma and Adaora and sons Kene and Ponkeey.

Some of her notable works include My Brother’s Wife (2019), Ritual of Vengeance (2021), and Sorrows of Nene (2014).

Her most recent public engagement was the release of a new movie titled The Debt, which premiered on YouTube just last week.