By: Odeh Favour
Sorrow has gripped the Nigerian film industry following the unexpected demise of movie star Chijioke “Cjay” Nwokafor.
The tragic news was broke on Wednesday by prominent film star Nkechi Blessing, who took to her Instagram handle to post nostalgic videos of her moments with the late screen actor.
Although the actress did not reveal what led to his untimely passing, she immediately halted the release of her upcoming film project, Egusi Ogbono, which featured the deceased, to honor his memory.
The project was originally scheduled to launch at 5:00 p.m. on Wednesday, but plans were abruptly shelved after medical personnel confirmed his passing at the hospital.
Recounting their final interaction, the movie producer disclosed that she had communicated with Cjay early Wednesday morning, making his sudden departure a profound shock.
“Cjay Nwoke Oma, so this is really the end? Omo we had plans. I spoke to you at 8 a.m.
today and a few hours later you are no more with us,” she lamented.
Struggling to process the loss, she added, “Omo please return if possible because I refuse to type otherwise and this is too much for me to handle.”
The sad news sent shockwaves across the entertainment space, triggering emotional reactions from several industry colleagues.
Expressing utter disbelief, fellow actor Charles Born indicated that he was already preparing to check on Cjay at the health facility when the news broke.
“Wait what? I was supposed to go see him at the clinic. Is this a joke?” he queried.
Similarly, Nollywood actor Emeka Nwagbaraocha took to his X handle to mourn the deceased, sharing his anguish over the sudden loss.
“Can’t believe CJ is dead mehn. We just texted a few days back! WTF is going on,” Nwagbaraocha expressed.
He continued, “CJ is such a sweet soul, talking about him in past sense is just.”
Neither the family of the late actor nor his representatives have issued an official statement regarding the cause of death or burial arrangements.
An indigene of Anambra State, Cjay launched his professional screen career in 2021 and went on to feature in notable films, including Larry Cold, Mum Overnight, and A Day to My Wedding.
