Nollywood actress Omotunde Ogundimu has appealed to Nigerians for financial assistance as she struggles to continue treatment for cervical cancer.
Ogundimu disclosed that she was diagnosed with the disease in 2024 after undergoing a series of medical tests.
The actress spoke about her condition during an interview with fellow actress Biola Bayo, which was published on Wednesday.
She said the illness had placed a heavy physical, emotional and financial burden on her, adding that the cost of treatment had become increasingly difficult for her family to sustain.
“It was when I did those tests that they said I had cervical cancer. I said, ‘Where did I get cancer from?’ I am an easy-going person,” Ogundimu said.
According to the actress, she has received assistance from several people since her diagnosis, including her three children, who she said have been using their earnings to support her medical care.
“I no longer have the strength. I have called several people, and many have helped me. My children have also been spending all their income to take care of me. They do not have time for themselves. I thank God for them,” she said.
Actress Appeals for Public Support
Ogundimu said she had been reluctant to publicly seek financial assistance because she was aware that some people might criticise her decision.
However, she said the severity of the pain and the need to continue her treatment eventually convinced her to make the appeal.
“I have thought about it, and I have to plead with the public finally. I know those who would abuse me will abuse me, and those who would help will help. It is just for me to be okay. The pain is too much,” she said.
The actress also spoke about the difficulties she has faced in securing acting roles despite spending about 35 years in the Nigerian film industry.
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Ogundimu said opportunities had declined significantly and claimed that she sometimes receives between N20,000 and N40,000 for acting jobs.
She said the situation had become particularly difficult because she is a widow and a mother of three. Her husband died in 2012.
“I am a mother of three. I am a widow. My husband passed away in 2012. I am good at what I do, but I am no longer being called for jobs,” she said.
Ogundimu Appeals to Film Industry
The actress also appealed to people in the Nigerian film industry who may have had disagreements with her to forgive her and consider her long career in Nollywood.
“Whoever I have offended in the movie industry should please forgive me. They should consider my journey and the foundation of this industry,” she said.
Ogundimu further lamented the fees she receives when she is offered acting roles, saying her decades of experience have not translated into better remuneration.
“Anytime I am called to set, I am offered N20,000, N40,000. And you dare not complain. I have 35 years of experience in this industry,” she said.
Her appeal comes as she continues to seek support for her treatment while also highlighting the financial difficulties she says have accompanied the decline in acting opportunities.