The Ogun chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), has confirmed the death of a Nollywood actress, Atinuke Kareem, after a prolonged battle with breast cancer.
Kareem’s death came barely a week after her colleague, Taiwo Hassan, popularly called Ogogo, died after being diagnosed with cancer by medical experts in Lagos State.
The actress’s demise was announced on Tuesday by the Executive Governor of TAMPAN Ogun State, Owolabi Ajasa, through a statement released on his social media handle.
In the statement announcing her death, the artistes expressed appreciation to colleagues, fans and well-wishers who contributed financially and offered prayers and encouragement during Kareem’s medical battle.
They added that the support extended to the actress and her family during her illness would always be appreciated.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,” the statement said.
“Your kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant so much to her family and all of us. We are deeply grateful.”
However, the association said that despite the efforts, prayers and support from members of the public and colleagues, the actress eventually lost her battle with the disease.
“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call,” the statement added.
The association described her death as a painful and irreparable loss, saying members could only submit to what it described as the will of God.
“We cannot question the Almighty God. We can only submit to His will and pray that He grants her eternal rest and gives her family, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss.”
Earlier, the actress, in an emotional video, had appealed to Nigerians for financial assistance and prayers to enable her to continue treatment for the disease.
In the video, she said: “I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help. The association I belong to, TAMPAN, has tried too, but it’s not enough”.
The actress, who was visibly distressed, appealed to members of the public not to abandon her, saying she had two young children.
“Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help,” she pleaded.