Nigeria’s entertainment industry has been plunged into mourning following the deaths of four notable personalities in music, film, television and personal development within days.
The deaths of juju musician Iyun Ajilore, popularly known as Saint Janet, Yoruba actress Temitope Osoba, filmmaker Dimbo Atiya and relationship coach Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh, popularly known as Coach Lara, have triggered tributes from colleagues, fans and loved ones.
According to PUNCH, the wave of grief began with the death of Saint Janet on August 1 following a brief illness.
The juju musician was known for combining traditional juju and highlife rhythms with street slang and humour. She was also recognised for her energetic performances and distinctive lyrics.
Saint Janet famously described herself as the leader, or “G O”, of the Saint Bottles Cathedral and Sinners’ Chapel. Her death prompted tributes from fans, musicians and socialites who remembered her as a colourful figure in Nigeria’s entertainment scene.
The industry suffered another loss with the death of actress Temitope Osoba at the age of 40.
Osoba’s colleagues announced her death on August 5. Before her death, the Yoruba actress had spoken publicly about her battle with cancer, describing the experience as life-changing and saying it motivated her to create greater awareness about the disease.
A burial announcement shared on her Instagram page stated that Osoba would be buried on August 13, 2026, in Iperu Remo, Ogun State. The funeral service is scheduled for Saint James Anglican Church, Iperu Remo, followed by her interment at Iperu Remo Cemetery. The family asked mourners to wear white.
The industry was further shaken by the death of filmmaker Dimbo Atiya, who was 53.
Atiya was regarded as an influential Nigerian television producer and was associated with productions including Sons of the Caliphate, Halita and the award-winning The Rishantes.
Actors, producers and other filmmakers paid tribute to Atiya, describing him as a storyteller and mentor whose influence extended beyond his television productions.
The fourth death was that of Lara Kudayisi Don-Momoh, popularly known as Coach Lara, the wife of relationship expert and media personality Teddy Don-Momoh.
Coach Lara died following a brief illness, weeks after welcoming her first child with her husband.
She was known as a therapist, author, relationship coach and business strategist, with her work focusing on relationships, personal development and helping people navigate challenges in their personal lives.
Her family has appealed for privacy and said details of her funeral arrangements would be announced later.
The deaths of Saint Janet, Temitope Osoba, Dimbo Atiya and Coach Lara have left colleagues, fans and loved ones mourning across Nigeria’s entertainment and creative sectors.
Although the four personalities worked in different fields, their careers and contributions earned them recognition among audiences and colleagues in Nigeria’s cultural and entertainment landscape.
