By Odeh Favour Adiya
The Nigerian film industry has been plunged into mourning following the sudden passing of veteran actor and producer Solomon Akiyesi. The Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) confirmed that the actor died in his sleep in the early hours of the morning after a brief medical episode.
The National President of the AGN, Mr. Yakub Abubakar, verified the news, stating that the actor had complained of chest pains the previous evening. Following a hospital visit where he was diagnosed with an ulcer and administered medication, Akiyesi returned home to rest. However, he was found unresponsive by his wife around 4:00 AM the following morning.
A native of Ososo in the Akoko-Edo Local Government Area of Edo State, Akiyesi was a formidable figure in Nollywood. His career, which began in the late 1990s, spanned over 100 films, earning him a reputation for both his acting prowess and his work as a producer.
His extensive body of work includes notable titles such as: Desperate Ladies, Bridge of Contract, Heart of a Saint, Gen Z Wife (2024), and Accidentally Us (2025).
Colleagues across the industry have expressed shock at the news. Actress Celestina Dovigalle described him as a vibrant and energetic professional who brought a unique joy to every film set he graced.
The AGN leadership has termed his death a significant loss to the Nigerian creative community. Akiyesi’s remains have been deposited in a morgue in Abuja as the industry and his family begin the process of honoring his life and legacy.
