The family of late Nollywood actress Tope Osoba has dismissed widespread reports claiming she died from cancer, describing the allegations as false and unverified.
The clarification comes after news of the actress’ death sparked speculation online, with several reports linking her passing to her previous battle with breast cancer.
Osoba reportedly died on Tuesday evening, shortly after speaking with some of her colleagues on the phone and posting “Ogo Tuntun”—meaning new glory—on her WhatsApp status.
Her death came nearly two years after she publicly appealed for financial assistance to undergo breast cancer surgery and treatment, leading many to assume that the illness caused her death.
However, in an official statement shared on the actress’ verified Instagram page on Thursday, her family rejected those claims.
“We are deeply saddened by the spread of false and unverified reports concerning the passing of our beloved.”
The family stressed that reports circulating across social media and blogs about the circumstances surrounding Osoba’s death were inaccurate.
“At this difficult time, we wish to categorically state that the numerous claims circulating on social media and various blogs regarding the circumstances surrounding her death are false, speculative, and entirely unauthorized.”
While declining to disclose the actual cause of her death, the family appealed to the public to stop spreading misinformation.
They urged Nigerians to respect the family’s privacy during the mourning period, noting that inaccurate reports only deepen their grief.
The statement added that any further information regarding the actress’ passing would be communicated through her official social media platforms.
The family has not yet announced funeral arrangements or disclosed the cause of death.