The Yoruba movie industry has been thrown into mourning following the death of Nollywood actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, popularly known as Atinuke Kareem.
The actress died on Tuesday, September 1, 2026, after battling breast cancer for some time.
Her death was announced by her colleague and Executive Governor of the Ogun State chapter of the Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria, TAMPAN, Owolabi Ajasa.
In a statement signed by the association’s Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, TAMPAN expressed appreciation to colleagues, fans and well-wishers who supported Kareem during her illness.
The association acknowledged the financial contributions, prayers, encouragement and other forms of support offered towards the actress’ treatment.
“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call,” the statement said.
TAMPAN described her death as a painful and irreparable loss, while praying for strength for her family, colleagues and loved ones.
The actress had earlier made a public appeal for financial assistance as she battled breast cancer.
In a video shared online, Kareem revealed that she had been receiving treatment for some time and that the illness had placed a heavy financial burden on her family.
“I’m a breast cancer patient. It has been going on for a while. My family has spent a lot of money; I’ve come to seek help,” she said.
Kareem also disclosed that the association she belonged to had made efforts to support her, but said more assistance was needed to continue her treatment.
Appealing to Nigerians, the actress said, “Don’t allow me to die this way; I have two young children. Nigerians, please help me with any amount you can use to help.”
Her plea had attracted support from members of the public, colleagues and fans, who contributed financially and offered prayers and encouragement during her battle.
Despite the efforts to save her, Kareem eventually succumbed to the illness.
Her death has triggered an outpouring of grief across the Yoruba entertainment industry, with colleagues and fans mourning the actress and remembering her contributions to Yoruba-language productions.
Kareem’s death also comes shortly after the passing of veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died following a battle with cancer.
The latest loss has further deepened the sadness within the Yoruba movie industry, which is still coming to terms with the death of one of its veteran figures.
As tributes continue to pour in for Atinuke Kareem, her family, colleagues and fans are left to mourn the actress, who died while still battling to overcome the disease.
Details of her burial arrangements had not been announced at the time of filing this report.
