Nollywood Actress Atinuke Kareem Succumbs to Cancer After Health Battle — full story

The Nigerian theatre and motion picture community, specifically the Ogun State Chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), has confirmed the demise of Nollywood actress Atinuke Kareem. Her passing followed a prolonged struggle with breast cancer. The official announcement was made public on Tuesday through an Instagram post by Owolabi Ajasa, a colleague and the Executive Governor of TAMPAN, Ogun State.

Ajasa's statement included a poignant video clip featuring Kareem herself, where she appealed for assistance and prayers during her health ordeal. The video visibly illustrated the severe impact of the illness on her. In her own words from the clip, Kareem stated, “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. 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.”

A press release, formally issued by the state Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Governor Ajasa, conveyed the association's profound gratitude. It acknowledged the financial contributions, prayers, encouragement, and general support extended by colleagues, admirers, and well-wishers throughout the actress's medical journey. The statement read, “We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem. Your kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant so much to her family and all of us. We are deeply grateful.”

Furthermore, TAMPAN expressed deep sorrow regarding her death, describing it as an irreparable loss that members must accept as divine will. The association's statement concluded, “Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call. 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. Rest in peace, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem.”

Atinuke Kareem's death occurs just over a week after the Yoruba film industry was plunged into mourning by the passing of veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, widely known as Ogogo, who also succumbed to stage-four cancer.