The Nollywood community is in deep mourning following the passing of veteran actress and director Cecilia Oby Kechere, popularly known by her iconic screen name, Ms. Koi Koi.
The news was officially confirmed by the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) on Friday, May 1, 2026. According to the guild, the actress passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026, after a prolonged battle with an undisclosed illness.
The Legacy of “Ms. Koi Koi”
Oby Kechere was a cornerstone of the “Golden Age” of Nollywood, known for her sharp wit and commanding screen presence:
- The Classroom Queen: She earned legendary status for her role as the eccentric teacher, Ms. Koi Koi, in the 2002 comedy classic Aki na Ukwa, where she shared memorable scenes with Chinedu Ikedieze (Aki) and Osita Iheme (Pawpaw).
- A Versatile Star: Beyond comedy, she featured in numerous hit productions including August Meeting, GSM Wahala, American Husband, and Isakaba.
- Behind the Camera: She was an accomplished director and producer, recently serving as the Vice Chairman of the DGN Abuja Chapter, where she was praised for her commitment to professional standards and the unity of the guild.
Double Tragedy for Nollywood
Kechere’s passing comes at an especially painful time for the industry, as it coincides with the loss of another veteran:
- Solomon Akiyesi: Just one day before the DGN’s announcement, it was confirmed that actor and producer Solomon Akiyesi also passed away on April 26, 2026, in Abuja.
- Industry in Shock: Tributes have poured in from colleagues and fans alike, with DGN National President Uche Agbo describing Kechere as a “committed professional and a valued member” whose contributions would never be forgotten.
