The Nollywood community is mourning the loss of veteran actress Stella Ikwuegbu, who passed away after battling leg cancer. Her demise was confirmed by movie producer Stanley Nwoko in a heartfelt Instagram post on Sunday.

“Popular Nollywood actress/veteran Mrs. Stella Ikwuegbu is dead,” Nwoko wrote. “The Veteran Actress left this world today after battling with leg cancer. Rest well, madam Stella.”

Nwoko also shared a poignant video of Ikwuegbu’s daughter mourning her mother, capturing the deep grief felt by her family. Fellow actress Ijele Christy Ejiofor expressed her sorrow on Instagram, recalling Ikwuegbu’s resilience through various challenges.

“Ukwu Gi Dia. Why? You scaled through several accidents and all. Eniure/Achiere came, and in less than a week, it killed you. Oh my… I feel bad,” Ejiofor wrote. “Stella Ikwuegbu, nenu Jennifer, you did not enjoy a thing. Why? Just why?”

Ikwuegbu’s Legacy

Born in Enugu State, Stella Ikwuegbu began her acting career in 1990 after graduating from the Institute of Management and Technology (IMT) in Enugu State. Over the years, she became a beloved figure in Nollywood, appearing in numerous films, including ‘Spoiler’, ‘Ukwa’, ‘Sound of Love’, ‘Holy Man’, ‘Two Hearts’, ‘Heart of Stone’, and ‘Madam Koikoi’.

In addition to her successful acting career, Ikwuegbu was also a businesswoman, owning a restaurant called ‘The Film Bar’.

Personal Life and Legacy

Ikwuegbu is survived by her husband, children, and grandchildren. Her death is a significant loss to the Nigerian film industry, following closely on the heels of the passing of veteran Yoruba actor Dayo Adewunmi, also known as Sule Suebebe, who died at the age of 68.

The Nollywood community and fans are left to reflect on Ikwuegbu’s contributions to the industry and the lasting impact of her work.