The prestigious Afolayan family, known for their significant contributions to Nollywood, is grieving the loss of their beloved matriarch. The news was first shared by acclaimed filmmaker and actor Kunle Afolayan, who took to Instagram to announce the passing of his mother, affectionately known as “Iya Oyo.”
The loss has brought together the three prominent Afolayan brothers Kunle, Gabriel, and Aremu in a touching display of familial unity and shared sorrow. Each brother has expressed their grief in deeply personal ways, offering a window into the profound impact their mother had on their lives and the void her departure has created.
Kunle Afolayan, the eldest of the brothers and a celebrated figure in African cinema, broke the news to the public with a heartfelt announcement that reflected both the pain of loss and gratitude for a life well-lived. While grappling with the difficulty of accepting this new reality, he found solace in the rich tapestry of memories his mother left behind. In his announcement, he reached out to well-wishers, requesting prayers for the family during this challenging period of adjustment.
The younger Afolayan brothers followed with their own poignant tributes. Aremu Afolayan shared a touching photograph of their mother on Instagram, accompanying it with a moving prayer for her eternal peace. His simple yet profound message, “Maami… Rest well. May the Lord in his mercy grant you happiness wherever you may be. I love you,” captured the raw emotion of a son bidding farewell to his mother.
Gabriel Afolayan, known for his versatility as an actor and musician, offered perhaps the most intimate glimpse into the family’s loss. In a particularly moving tribute, he described how their home has lost its warmth with the departure of “big mummy.” His remembrance painted a vivid picture of a mother who was not just a parent but also a friend and companion, fondly recalling their shared moments of conversation and dance. “I will miss my gist and dance partner,” he wrote, adding a touching note of solidarity with his siblings in their shared grief.
The passing of Iya Oyo represents more than the loss of a mother; it marks the end of an era for a family that has significantly shaped Nigerian cinema. The Afolayan brothers, each successful in their own right within the entertainment industry, have often credited their mother’s influence and support in their journey to prominence. Their current unity in grief serves as a testament to the strong family bonds she helped forge.
The news has resonated deeply within the Nollywood community, where the Afolayan name carries considerable weight. Their mother’s passing has prompted an outpouring of condolences from fans, fellow actors, and industry colleagues, highlighting the family’s respected position in Nigerian entertainment and the widespread impact of their loss.
As the family navigates this difficult period, their public sharing of grief has created a touching narrative of family love, loss, and remembrance. Their tributes paint the picture of a mother who was not only the backbone of their family but also a source of joy, wisdom, and dance partner to her children.
The Afolayan brothers’ decision to share their grief publicly, while maintaining the dignity of their private pain, has allowed their followers to participate in honoring their mother’s memory while respecting the family’s need for space to mourn. As they process this significant loss, the brothers’ united front serves as a powerful reminder of their mother’s lasting legacy – a closely-knit family bound together by love and mutual support, even in times of profound sorrow.
