Nollywood actress, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, has died after battling breast cancer, following her recent public appeal for financial assistance to continue her treatment.
Kareem’s death was announced on Tuesday by her colleague and Executive Governor of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN), Ogun State Chapter, Owolabi Ajasa.
Femi Solaja, the association’s Public Relations Officer, in a statement, expressed sadness over the actress’ death, saying she passed on despite efforts by her family, colleagues and well-wishers to support her treatment.
The association also expressed appreciation to those who contributed financially, prayed for her and offered encouragement during her illness.
TAMPAN described her death as an irrecoverable loss and urged members to accept the development as the will of God.
“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem,” the association said.
It prayed that God would grant the actress eternal rest and give her family, colleagues and loved ones the strength to bear the loss.
Before her death, Kareem had appealed to Nigerians for assistance in a video shared by her colleagues, disclosing that she had been battling breast cancer for some time
“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,” she said.
Appealing for support, the actress, who disclosed that she had two young children.
“Dont allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help.”
Kareem’s death adds to recent bereavements in the Yoruba film industry, which has continued to mourn the loss of prominent practitioners.