Nollywood actress Ajara Lasisi, widely known as Aunty Ajara, was buried on Thursday following a prolonged illness, marking the loss of a respected figure in Nigeria’s film industry. Family, colleagues, and community members gathered for the Islamic burial rites, which were documented in videos and photos circulating online.
Lasisi died after a long battle with liver disease, a condition that had recently prompted public appeals for financial support to cover her medical costs. Her management team confirmed her passing, describing it as the end of a courageous struggle. Prior to her death, colleagues and supporters had organized fundraising efforts, drawing significant attention and contributions from Nigerians domestically and abroad. Following her death, her management announced that donations were no longer necessary and requested that the public cease sending funds to previously shared accounts.
The burial ceremony was attended by close relatives and a select few from the Nollywood community, who gathered to pay their final respects. Tributes have since flooded social media, with fans and peers remembering Lasisi for her humility, resilience, and commitment to indigenous film productions. Colleagues noted her consistent presence in Yoruba-language cinema and her reputation as a dedicated, hardworking performer.
Her death has cast a shadow over Nollywood, Africa’s largest film industry by output, where she was regarded as a steady and grounded presence. The financial spotlight on her final illness underscored the challenges many industry professionals face regarding healthcare access. While her burial concludes the immediate mourning period, discussions continue regarding support systems for aging or ailing actors within the sector.
Lasisi’s career spanned numerous productions that contributed to the cultural footprint of Yoruba-language cinema. Her passing represents the loss of a performer remembered for her simplicity and dedication—qualities that defined her both on and off screen. The industry now reflects on her legacy amid ongoing conversations about welfare for its talent.