In a heartfelt video posted to Instagram on Saturday with the caption “A new month, a new dawn,” Ogunmola expressed gratitude to her fans, family, and colleagues for their support during what she described as the most difficult period of her life.
“The past months have been heavy, but your love, prayers, and condolences have carried me through the storm,” she said. “Today I rise, stronger, grateful, and ready to embrace my passion again. The screens have missed me… and I’m back, doing what I love most.”
Ogunmola, who is married to veteran comic actor Sunday Omobolanle (popularly known as Papi Luwe), lost her son Ayomikun earlier this year — a devastating blow that drew an outpouring of grief and sympathy from across the Nigerian film industry. Stars such as Funsho Adeolu, Foluke Daramola, and others shared emotional tributes and messages of support on social media.
Speaking partly in Yoruba, the actress revealed that she had struggled with depression in the two months following her son’s passing, but gradually found comfort in the love and prayers extended to her from all corners of the world.
“For the past two months since I lost my child, I have been depressed and in sadness. But as I have been sad, the whole world has let me know that they are with me. I see all the love you have showered me with. I feel your prayers. Your care is also noticed. Thank you. I am grateful,” she said.
Quoting from a Christian hymn, Ogunmola reflected on her faith as a source of strength:
“When it is convenient for us, you are the Most High. When it is not, you are still the Most High.”
The actress noted that although the pain of losing Ayomikun remains, she is choosing resilience and purpose as a way to honour his memory.
“Today, I rise again, not because the pain is gone, but because I know Ayomikun would want me to. My passion calls, and it is time for me to return to the screen where I belong. To all filmmakers, directors, producers, and my industry colleagues — I am back, stronger and wiser. Let’s make magic again.”
Daughter of the late theatre legend Kola Ogunmola, Peju Ogunmola has built a legacy as one of the enduring pillars of Yoruba Nollywood, celebrated for her range, grace, and longevity in both stage and screen productions.
Her return marks not just a personal victory over grief, but also a symbolic renewal — a reminder that art and purpose can become pathways to healing.