The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of talented Nollywood comic actor and content creator, Bamidele Oluwatope, widely known as Okemesi.

The actor passed away on Tuesday morning, February 24, 2026, after a harrowing battle with health complications that left him in a coma for several days.

Fellow actor and close associate, Jeff ‘Tony Montana’ Owolewa, confirmed the tragic news in an emotional video posted on his Instagram page. According to Owolewa, the actor was pronounced dead by doctors at exactly 11:50 AM.

“With a heavy heart, I am announcing to the world that Okemesi is dead… We have taken the body to the morgue, and I will communicate the rest of the arrangements to you guys,” Owolewa stated.

Okemesi’s health struggle became public knowledge recently after a viral video showed him appealing for financial assistance and stable accommodation.

The actor had attributed his illness to a “spiritual attack” and recounted a difficult journey through various hospitals, including Island Hospital and a facility in Osogbo, Osun State. According to associates, his condition took a fatal turn following complications from medication administered during his recent hospital stay, which eventually led to a coma.

Okemesi was a rising star in the Yoruba and mainstream Nollywood circles, known for his unique blend of English, Yoruba, and his native Ekiti dialect.

He gained massive popularity through:

• Comedy Skits: His hilarious online content made him a fan favorite.
• Talent Hunts: His standout performances at the De9jaSpirit Talent Hunt.
• Notable Films: Acting credits in major productions like Kunle Afod’s Dearest, Aborisade, Mebamu, and The Order.

In the wake of his passing, his team has officially requested the public to stop sending donations to the bank accounts previously promoted for his medical care.

“Please stop sending money to that account. Okemesi is dead. We are going to deactivate the account,” Owolewa urged, while expressing deep gratitude to the Nollywood community and fans who contributed to the actor’s medical bills during his final days.

The death of Okemesi is a significant blow to the comedy and film industry, leaving fans and colleagues devastated by the loss of such a vibrant talent.