Nollywood actor Amokade Olatayo, popularly known as Ijebu, has appealed for forgiveness from his family, colleagues and others he may have offended, saying life is too short to allow disagreements to persist.
Ijebu made the emotional appeal on Monday following the death of veteran Yoruba actor Taiwo Hassan, popularly known as Ogogo, who died on Sunday at the age of 66.
In a video shared on Instagram, Ijebu said he woke up with a heavy heart and decided to use the moment to make peace with people he might have wronged.
“My heart is so heavy this morning. I have been awake since 6 a.m. My heart is so heavy,” the actor said.
He specifically appealed to his family members, colleagues in the Nigerian film industry, his boss, workers and younger actors to forgive him for any offence he might have committed.
Ijebu described himself as a sinner and asked those he may have hurt to let go of their grievances.
The actor also said he had forgiven people who had offended him, stressing the importance of reconciliation while people are still alive.
According to him, death should serve as a reminder that disagreements and grudges should not be allowed to permanently damage relationships.
“We came to this world with nothing, and we will leave with nothing. We don’t have any reason to be fighting ourselves. Life is too short,” he said.
Ijebu’s message came amid widespread tributes following Ogogo’s death, which has prompted an outpouring of grief across the Nigerian entertainment industry.
Ogogo, a prominent figure in Yoruba-language cinema, died on Sunday after a battle with cancer. His death was followed by tributes from fellow actors, musicians, politicians and fans.
The actor’s death has continued to generate reactions, with several colleagues reflecting on his career and contribution to the Nigerian film industry.
Ijebu’s appeal has consequently added a broader message of reconciliation to the tributes surrounding Ogogo’s passing, urging people to resolve their differences and seek forgiveness before it is too late.
The actor’s comments have also drawn attention to the fragility of life and the importance of maintaining relationships, particularly within the close-knit Nigerian entertainment community.
