Abayomi Susan
The Nigerian film industry is mourning the death of popular Nollywood actress, Temitope Kofoworola Osoba, popularly known as Tope Osoba, who has reportedly passed away at the age of 40.
The actress’s death has sparked an outpouring of grief among her colleagues, fans and friends, many of whom have taken to social media to pay tribute to her and express their shock over her passing.
Osoba had previously spoken publicly about her health challenges. In late 2024, she revealed that she had been diagnosed with breast cancer after discovering a lump during a self-examination.
She subsequently underwent surgery in November 2024 and received financial and emotional support from colleagues and well-wishers, including actress Foluke Daramola, to help with her treatment.
In August 2025, Osoba announced her return to acting, expressing gratitude to her supporters and saying she had overcome the health challenge. Her return was welcomed by fans and colleagues who celebrated her renewed career journey.
Throughout her career, Osoba was recognised as one of the familiar faces in the Nigerian film industry, building a following through her appearances in Yoruba-language productions and other Nollywood projects.
Her journey through illness and subsequent return to the screen also drew considerable attention from fans, who had followed her updates and offered encouragement during her treatment.
The news of her reported passing has therefore come as a shock to many who had celebrated her recovery and looked forward to seeing more of her work in the Nigerian entertainment industry.
The actress, who hailed from Abeokuta, Ogun State, was expected to turn 41 in December 2026.
Tributes have continued to pour in across social media, with fans and colleagues remembering Osoba for her contributions to Nollywood and expressing condolences to her family, friends and loved ones.
