The Nigerian film industry has been thrown into mourning following the sudden death of Nollywood comic actor Bamidele Tope Saint, popularly known as Okemesi.
The actor reportedly passed away on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, while receiving treatment at a hospital.
The death of Okemesi comes just days after he moved into a new apartment rented for him by members of the public.
His colleague, actor Jeff Owolewa, also known as Tony Montana, confirmed the sad news on Instagram. He revealed that Okemesi had gone into a coma due to complications from medication administered during treatment.
“With a heavy heart, I’m announcing to the world that Okemesi is dead. The doctor pronounced him dead at exactly 11:50 a.m. this morning, February 24, 2026. Okemesi is gone.
“So, on behalf of the entire Bamidele family, I’m announcing to the world that Oluwatope Bamidele Saint Okemesi is dead. We have taken the body to the morgue. I will communicate the rest of the arrangements to you guys. We appreciate every one of you who turned up for him. May God forgive Okemesi and rest his soul.”
Before his death, Okemesi had been battling serious health challenges. Two weeks ago, he appealed for financial assistance after falling ill and becoming homeless. However, support poured in from fans and colleagues.
According to Jeff, complications arose from drugs given during an earlier hospital visit. He explained that the actor had been sleeping excessively and had little appetite.
“Guys, Okemesi has been hospitalised again. He was sleeping all through Saturday and Sunday without having much appetite for food due to complications from the drugs that were given to him from the hospital when he was discharged last week.
“I rushed to his house very early on Monday to take him to hospital. He was rejected in different hospitals including a government hospital in Igodo, the doctor refused to attend to him saying there’s no bed space. I have to take him back to the first private hospital that started his treatment. So they admitted him, and stabilised him.
“His breathing is improving. So, he has been in coma since Monday morning. They have placed him on oxygen. We’re all praying that he gets back on track.”
Sadly, despite efforts made to stabilise him, he did not survive. Meanwhile, tributes have begun to pour in from across Nollywood and social media.
