The Nigerian entertainment industry has been thrown into mourning following the passing of veteran Nollywood actor and esteemed academic, Dr. Columbus Irosanga. His demise has sparked an outpouring of grief from colleagues, students, and fans across social media platforms, with many reflecting on his remarkable contributions to both Nollywood and academia.
The heartbreaking news was first shared by actress Hilda Dokubo, who took to Instagram to express her sorrow in a deeply emotional message:
“There can’t be a shortage of angels in heaven that the few here are called home like this na! This one is heavy on Uniport, Rivers State, Nollywood.”
She continued:
“Our uncle Coli @colu_mbusirisoanga has gone to be with the Lord. Ikoli eh dein na mu.”
A Storied Career in Nollywood
Dr. Columbus Irosanga, who hailed from Okrika, Rivers State, was widely known for his stellar performances in Nollywood classics. His unforgettable role as Chief Priest “Igbudu” in the 2001 blockbuster Isakaba cemented his status as one of the industry’s most revered actors.
His commanding screen presence and mastery of traditional storytelling earned him numerous accolades, including:
Best Actor in a Supporting Role – Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA)
Best Actor in a Drama – City People Entertainment Awards
Best Actor in a Leading Role – Best of Nollywood Awards
Colleagues and fans have taken to X (formerly Twitter), Instagram, Facebook, and LinkedIn to honor his legacy, sharing clips from his movies and recounting fond memories of working with him.
A Legacy Beyond the Silver Screen
Beyond acting, Dr. Irosanga was a distinguished academic, serving as a senior lecturer at the University of Port Harcourt’s Theatre Arts Department. His passion for teaching and mentoring young actors shaped the careers of many Nollywood stars.
Many of his former students and colleagues at UNIPORT have paid tribute to his dedication to the arts, education, and African storytelling.
A Devastating Loss for Nollywood
His passing comes at a time when Nollywood is already grappling with multiple tragic losses. Just recently, actress Pat Ugwu also passed away, a loss that left actor Emeka Okoye deeply shaken.
In an Instagram post on Wednesday, Okoye shared a funeral poster with details of Ugwu’s burial and poured out his sorrow:
“Rest in peace sis. Pat Ugwu. @patpat_ugwu so we no get to work again? Death whyooo? God please. Rest in peace PAT. May your soul rest in the bosom of the Lord.”
He also expressed concern over the increasing number of Nollywood deaths, calling for divine protection for his colleagues:
“God, please protect all my colleagues, especially those I am close to. This unusual death is frightening. I proclaim life to everyone close to me this 2025 in the precious blood of Jesus. Amen.”
Tributes and Reactions Flood Social Media
Social media has been flooded with tributes from industry insiders, fans, and scholars, celebrating the life and contributions of Dr. Columbus Irosanga.
X (Twitter): Fans are sharing clips of his legendary performances in Isakaba, along with heartfelt messages of condolence.
Instagram: Actors and actresses are posting emotional tributes, reflecting on their memories with him.
Facebook: UNIPORT students and Nollywood lovers are reminiscing about his impact in both film and academia.
LinkedIn: Professionals in the entertainment and academic sectors are acknowledging his role in shaping theatre and film education in Nigeria.
A Life Well Lived, A Legacy That Lives On
Dr. Columbus Irosanga leaves behind his wife, children, students, and a generation of actors he mentored. While the cause of his death remains undisclosed, what remains certain is the immense void his passing has created in Nollywood and the academic world.
His legacy—one of storytelling, culture, and mentorship—will forever be etched in Nigeria’s entertainment history.
Rest in power, Dr. Columbus Irosanga.
