Nollywood is in mourning again. Yoruba actress Atinuke Remilekun Kareem, known as Atinuke Kareem, has died after a battle with breast cancer. The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria, Ogun State chapter, announced her passing on Tuesday, September 1, 2026.
Owolabi Ajasa, Executive Governor of TAMPAN Ogun State, posted the official statement on Instagram. It was signed by the state Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja. The post included an earlier video of the actress pleading for help while she was still fighting the illness.
In that clip, Kareem laid her situation bare.
“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. The association I belong to, TAMPAN, has tried too, but it’s not enough.”
Then came the line that now sits heavy over the industry.
“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.”
Reports say she made that public appeal about four months before her death. Colleagues, fans and well-wishers contributed money and prayers. It was not enough to save her.
TAMPAN thanked those who stood by her.
“We sincerely appreciate everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement, and support towards the treatment of our dear colleague, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem. Your kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant so much to her family and all of us. We are deeply grateful.”
The association then confirmed the worst.
“Sadly, despite all our efforts and prayers, Atinuke has passed on and answered the final call. We cannot question the Almighty God. We can only submit to His will and pray that He grants her eternal rest and gives her family, colleagues, and loved ones the strength to bear this painful loss. Rest in peace, Atinuke Remilekun Kareem.”
Her death lands barely eight days after veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, died following a stage-four cancer battle. Two losses in one week have left Yoruba filmmakers raw and exhausted.
No funeral arrangements had been announced at the time of publication.