Nollywood Mourns as Comic Star Aunty Ajara Succumbs to Liver Disease

The vibrant world of Yoruba cinema has been dimmed by the loss of one of its most unique sparks. Ajara Lasisi, the diminutive actress affectionately known as “Aunty Ajara,” passed away in the early hours of Thursday, February 5, 2026, after a harrowing battle with liver disease. Her death marks a somber end to a weeks-long ordeal that saw the Nollywood community and the Nigerian public rally in a desperate, albeit unsuccessful, bid to save her life.

The news of her passing was broken by film director Tobi Oladele, better known as TeeMony, who confirmed that the actress died overnight. In a heart-wrenching tribute shared via social media, TeeMony described Ajara as a courageous fighter who faced her health challenges with a strong spirit until the very end. The announcement was accompanied by a confirmation from her brother, Ridwan Lasisi, who thanked the public for the outpouring of support while requesting that all further donations to the previously circulated medical fund be stopped immediately.

Ajara’s final days were a testament to the power of community, though they were also marked by significant pain. Only a week ago, a viral video surfaced showing the actress in a critical state, tethered to an oxygen tank in a hospital bed. The sight of the usually cheerful comic star tearfully pleading for help triggered an immediate response from industry heavyweights. Stars like Wunmi Toriola, Foluke Daramola, and Ronke Oshodi Oke utilized their platforms to solicit millions of naira, eventually raising over ₦5 million for her care.

However, the medical challenges were compounded by tragic personal circumstances. Beyond the liver-related illness, it was revealed that Ajara was also pregnant at the time of her struggle. Furthermore, colleagues disclosed that the actress had been the primary caregiver for her mother, who is currently paralyzed by a stroke. This narrative of a young woman carrying the weight of her family’s survival while fighting for her own life added a layer of profound sadness to the public’s perception of her plight.

Known for her sharp wit and infectious energy in comic roles, Aunty Ajara was a staple in Yoruba-language productions. Her ability to hold her own alongside giants of the industry made her a fan favorite and a respected professional among her peers. Tributes have poured in from all corners of the entertainment world, with many describing her as a “joyful spirit” whose off-screen life was defined by the same resilience she displayed in her performances.

The tragedy has also reignited a difficult conversation within the Nigerian entertainment industry regarding the lack of a sustainable health insurance framework for its practitioners. While the industry succeeded in raising significant funds in a short time, the recurring nature of these “SOS” calls for ailing actors has led many to call for systemic change. Colleagues noted that despite her hard work, the sheer cost of managing liver failure and supporting a disabled parent had exhausted her modest earnings long before her condition became public knowledge.

As burial arrangements are awaited, the mood in Nollywood remains one of deep reflection. The loss of Ajara Lasisi is not just the loss of a talented performer, but a reminder of the fragility of the lives behind the laughter. Her family has expressed gratitude for the prayers and financial interventions, noting that the love shown to her during her illness provided a measure of comfort in her final hours.

Aunty Ajara leaves behind a legacy of laughter and a story of a daughter’s devotion to her mother. In an industry that often celebrates glamour, her life and death have spotlighted the grit and sacrifice common to many who dedicate themselves to the craft of storytelling in Nigeria.