The Nigerian movie industry has been thrown into grief following the death of Yoruba actress Temitope Osoba, widely known as Tope Osoba.
News of her passing spread on Tuesday after actor Alesh Sanni announced it on social media, leaving fans and colleagues saddened.
The announcement was made on Tuesday, but neither the actress’ family nor her management has released an official statement about the circumstances surrounding her death.
The cause of her death has also not been made public.
Alesh Sanni, who was close to the late actress, shared an emotional message as he mourned her.
He recalled the moments they spent together and said he was struggling to come to terms with the loss.
Following the announcement, many actors, filmmakers and fans flooded social media with condolence messages.
They remembered Osoba for her dedication to the Yoruba film industry and praised her performances in several productions over the years.
The actress built a successful career in Yoruba movies, earning recognition for her ability to play different roles in family dramas, comedy films and traditional stories. Some of the movies she appeared in include Ile Owo, Omo Iya Kan and Gucci Girls.
Her death came less than a year after she returned to acting following her recovery from breast cancer.
In 2025, Osoba disclosed that she discovered a lump in her breast during a self-examination.
She later underwent surgery and radiation treatment before announcing that she had defeated the disease.
After recovering, the actress thanked colleagues, fans and supporters who stood by her with financial help, prayers and encouragement throughout her treatment.
She also spoke about how the health challenge changed her life and gave her a fresh purpose.
Osoba said the experience motivated her to create more awareness about breast cancer while continuing her acting career.
She believed her survival story would encourage others facing similar health challenges not to give up.
Many people who celebrated her recovery have now expressed shock over her sudden death.
Tributes have continued to pour in from across the entertainment industry, with many remembering her as a talented actress whose courage during her illness inspired many people.
The family is expected to announce details of her burial arrangements in the coming days.
