The Osun State chapter of the Theatre Art and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria (TAMPAN) has expressed shock at the sudden demise of Maroof Afolabi, a popular Nollywood actor known as Murphy. Afolabi, who hailed from Osogbo, died unexpectedly, leaving behind fellow actors and fans alike in mourning.
Adedayo Adeyemi, the Osun TAMPAN secretary, revealed that members initially doubted the news about Afolabi’s passing. However, the deceased’s family will announce his burial arrangements, and TAMPAN members have been instructed to gather in Osogbo on Monday for further information.
Adeyemi described Afolabi as one of the most prominent Nollywood stars from Osun State, adding that his death had a profound impact on Osun citizens. He said, “it shocked all of us, his kinsmen from Osun, his state of origin…Members of TAMPAN from Osun did not believe the news. We initially doubted it until it was confirmed by Murphy’s younger brother living with him in Lagos.”
On Sunday, when our correspondent visited Fetuata’s Compound, Osogbo, where Afolabi hailed from, residents were discussing the sudden death of the acclaimed actor in hushed voices. Some of Afolabi’s immediate family members were not informed yet. Although youths of the compound refused to openly comment on the development, they expressed their grief and sadness at the sudden loss.
The Nigerian film industry has lost yet another incredible actor, and fans and colleagues will always remember Murphy Afolabi’s contributions to Nollywood.
