Veteran Kannywood actor Umar Ascon, widely recognised for his iconic role as Alhaji Lado Mai Barkono in the long-running television series Garwashi, has died. He passed away on Saturday, March 14, 2026, at Malam Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital after a prolonged illness.
The确认 of his death was provided by Kannywood producer and neighbour Abubakar Yahaya Matinko. Ascon is survived by his pregnant wife and two daughters.
Before his rise to fame in Nigeria’s Hausa-language film industry, Kannywood, Ascon worked as a businessman at Hotoro Depot in Kano. His transition into acting led to widespread recognition, first through his memorable performance in the popular Garwashi series. He further solidified his reputation with appearances in notable Kannywood productions such as Wata Shida and Manyan Mata.
Funeral prayers for the actor were held at Al-Masjlisul Islami Mosque, near Gade-Gade Filling Station in Kano, following which he was interred in accordance with Islamic rites.
Ascon’s passing marks the loss of a familiar and respected figure within Kannywood, one of Africa’s largest regional film industries. His work, particularly in Garwashi, contributed to the cultural footprint of Hausa-language entertainment, which reaches millions of viewers across West Africa and the diaspora. The actor’s career, spanning from business to film, reflects the diverse pathways into the industry. Colleagues and fans are anticipated to mourn his death, highlighting his contribution to local storytelling through television and cinema.
