Another Nollywood veteran, Gbenga Richards passes on months after seeking financial assistance from public

Lights have dimmed on one of Nigeria’s respected stage and screen actor, Gbenga Richards.

The actor reportedly died on Wednesday after a long battle with diabetes. His colleague and movie producer Femi Adewale broke the news of Richards’ death on Facebook on Thursday.

Adewale, former Head of Programmes at Galaxy TV Lagos wrote: “Good night Gbenga Richards. Another Nollywood Icon is gone. A gem is lost. My friend and brother is gone to be with his creator. May the lord rest your soul in Jesus’ name.”

It will be recalled that late last year, there was a number of social media posts pointing to the worsening health condition of the actor and call for financial assistance.

Aged 60, the actor and star of critically acclaimed movies such as Sango, Mirror in the Sun, Fighting Machine, and 30 Days in the post said: “My name is Gbenga Richards, I’m sure a lot of you out there know me. My friends and fans and colleagues have encouraged me to do this, so I’ve decided to make my cry public. I’m really undergoing a very serious health issue.

“I have acute high blood pressure and suffering from acute diabetes. I live on medication right now. That I’m alive speaking to you this wonderful day is by the grace of God. So, I’m calling on well-loving Nigerians please come to my aid. Don’t allow me to die.”