Nollywood icon Olusegun Akinremi, celebrated for his decades-long career in Nigeria’s Yoruba-language film industry, has died at the age of 72. The actor, widely recognized by his stage name Chief Kanran, passed away on Friday morning, according to an announcement by filmmaker Seun Oloketuyi via Instagram. No further details about the cause or circumstances of his death were immediately available.
Oloketuyi’s social media post, shared with his followers, confirmed the news succinctly: “Popular actor, Segun Remi died Friday morning.” Tributes from colleagues and fans began pouring in shortly after, underscoring Akinremi’s enduring influence in Nigerian cinema. Best known for his portrayal of General Philips in the 13th episode of the defunct television drama Megafortune, Akinremi became a household name in the 1990s and early 2000s. His performances often blended gravitas with humor, leaving an indelible mark on viewers across West Africa.
The Yoruba film industry, a cornerstone of Nollywood’s prolific output, has long served as a cultural touchstone for audiences in Nigeria and beyond. Akinremi’s career spanned several industry eras, from stage plays to the rise of home video productions. Though Megafortune concluded years ago, his role in the series remains a nostalgic highlight for many fans. Reports from local outlet Media Talk Africa noted that details about his recent activities and health remained sparse, reflecting the actor’s preference for privacy in later years.
Nollywood, often dubbed the world’s second-largest film industry by volume, has faced waves of loss in recent years as veterans from its formative decades pass away. Akinremi’s death adds to this growing list, sparking renewed conversations about preserving the legacies of pioneering artists. Social media users shared clips of his memorable performances, while colleagues praised his mentorship of younger actors.
As of publication, Akinremi’s family has not released an official statement. Industry insiders suggest funeral arrangements will likely follow Islamic rites, consistent with his faith. The absence of confirmed details about his final days has left fans clinging to his on-screen legacy, where his commanding presence and nuanced delivery continue to resonate.
The actor’s passing underscores both the fragility of life and the enduring power of storytelling. For audiences who grew up watching his work, Chief Kanran’s characters offered laughter, wisdom, and a mirror to societal dynamics—a testament to the role of art in connecting generations. As tributes mount, so too does the recognition of a void left in Nigerian cinema, one that new talent will inevitably strive to fill.
