Nollywood mourns veteran actor Diewait Ikpechukwu after prolonged illness

Nollywood has lost another actor, veteran Diewait Ikpechukwu, he died at the age of 71, following a prolonged illness. This marks another painful loss for Nigeria’s film industry.

TheCable Lifestyle on November 7, 2026, revealed Ikpechukwu died on Thursday, November 5. Family sources disclosed his death, while Abubakar Yakubu, national president of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), independently confirmed it to the publication.

His other notable credits include Royal Palace (2005), The Guilty (2006), Across the River (2006), Python King (2007) and Ìjé Love (2022). In Ìjé Love, he portrayed King Obumneme. His acting career spanned more than 25 years.

Ikpechukwu had a varied career. He was a footballer and sports commentator before moving into acting. He also served as the pioneer chairman of the AGN's Enugu State chapter, where he encouraged and mentored upcoming performers.

Tributes have continued to emerge from members of the entertainment community.

AGN president Abubakar Yakubu announced the actor's passing in an Instagram tribute, describing him as a legend whose memory would endure.

Israel Audu, director-general of the Kaduna International Film Festival, also mourned
Ikpechukwu, describing him as a committed professional whose experience and mentorship contributed to the Nigerian film industry.

Fans have likewise been remembering the veteran through tributes and recollections of his memorable screen performances

His daughter, Chiamaka, appealed to the Actors Guild and others to respect the family's privacy and allow her to announce her father's death herself. Her request is an important reminder to approach the family's grief with sensitivity.

Ikpechukwu's passing leaves behind a legacy of memorable performances, dedication to Nollywood and service to younger actors. His contribution to Nigerian cinema will not be forgotten.