Another tragedy has hit the Nigerian entertainment industry with the death of ace Nollywood actor, Justus Esiri, who was aged 71.
Esiri passed on late Tuesday but details of the cause of his death are still sketchy.
The actor’s son, Sidney Esiri (aka Dr. SID), a popular professional dentist-turned-pop-musician made the announcement on Twitter, posting his father’s photograph with an update that read: “RIP Dad‘.”
Efforts to get details have proven abortive as the musician has abandoned his calls, but a family source disclosed that members have been asked to remain silent until giving instructions to speak.
Late Justus Esiri began his sterling acting career in the 1970s. He was a prominent actor in the now-rested local soap, Village Headmaster, where he played the role of the headmaster. He was married to Omiete with whom he had six children.
Esiri, who was a respected figure in the movie industry due to his talent, attended Urohobo College, after which he travelled to Germany to study engineering. It was in Germany that he developed interest in theatre. As a result, he began his acting career on stage in the European country.
He was the only Nigerian male performing on stage between 1968 and 1969. He also worked for voice of Nigeria (VON) and the German Service as a translator.
He was performing on stage in Germany when a delegation from Nigeria invited him to perform in Nigeria in a government-sponsored programme; and since his return to Nigeria, he has never returned to Europe
Meanwhile, President Goodluck Jonathan has joined other Nigerians in mourning the veteran actor, describing him as an epitome of commitment, excellence and creativity.
“President Jonathan reiterates his belief that Nollywood actors have carved a positive image for Nigeria in the eyes of the international community, with the late Esiri, a Member of the Order of the Niger (MON), having contributed in no small measure to the creation and sustenance of that image,” a release from the president signed by Dr. reuben Abati, his special adviser on media and publicity, stated.
“President Jonathan believes that the Nigerian movie industry and the country as a whole will greatly miss the popular actor who came to national limelight with his acclaimed performance in the popular television series, Village Headmaster, and other movies.”
Jonathan extended “sincere commiserations” to the Esiri family, the government and people of Delta State and all fans of the revered actor; and also condoled with the Nollywood Family “on the passage of a notable member, mentor, pioneer and inspiring actor.”
He enjoined younger members of the industry to keep Justus Esiri’s legacy alive by promoting higher standards in their movies, and also prayed for the peaceful repose of the departed.
