Nollywood actress, Cynthia Okereke popularly known as ‘Nwanyi oma’ is dead. The news of her death was announced on Wednesday.

The news of her untimely demise has left fans, colleagues, and the entertainment community in deep mourning. The actress, known for her exceptional talent and warm personality, died on Tuesday evening.

The heart-wrenching announcement was made by Joseph Okechukwu, a popular actor and filmmaker, through an emotional Instagram post. Okechukwu expressed his shock and disbelief at the tragic news, revealing that he had intended to sponsor Okereke‘s flight ticket to the United States before her sudden death.

Okechukwu wrote, “REST IN PEACE, Nwanyi oma. I’m shattered beyond words. The fact that I was about to pay for your flight ticket to come to finish what we started only to hear you went to be with Lord just last night is one of the toughest things I’ve ever had to deal with in recent times.

“I pray I’m able to recover from this shock. Life is really just a mist. One minute you have it, the next you don’t. For the more than 20 years that I’ve known you, you’ve been such an amazing, decent, and lovely soul to be around.

“I never imagined you’d exit so unceremoniously. Words fail me. Sleep on, Cynthia. May your gentle soul rest on till we meet again in glory.”


Nwanyi oma, as Okereke was fondly called, had been an integral part of the Nigerian film industry for over two decades.

Her contributions to Nollywood were widely recognized, and she was cherished for her remarkable talent and professionalism.

Throughout her career, she portrayed a wide range of memorable characters as she is known for her motherly roles in movies.

Recall that Okereke was kidnapped in Enugu alongside fellow actor Clemson Cornel, but they were later released unhurt by their abductors days after they were declared missing.