Oby Kechere: Nollywood Actress Ms Koi Koi of Aki na Ukwa Fame Passes Away, Tributes Pour In
- Beloved Nollywood actress Cecilia Oby Kechere has passed away after a long illness, the Directors Guild of Nigeria has confirmed
- Kechere, known for her iconic role as 'Ms Koi Koi,' left behind a legacy of mentorship and dedication to the arts
- The talented actress and director's contributions to the Abuja film industry will be remembered with great fondness
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Popular Nollywood actress Cecilia Oby Kechere, best known for her role as "Ms Koi Koi" in the 2002 classic Aki na Uwa, has died.
Source: Instagram
Kechere, who doubled as a movie director, passed away on Monday, April 27, 2026, after a long illness.
The Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) confirmed her passing in an official statement signed by guild chair Uche Agbo.
"It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Madam Cecilia Oby Kechere," the statement read, with Agbo extending condolences to her family on behalf of the National Executive Council and the entire DGN family.
According to the statement, Miss Koi Koi had been battling an undisclosed ailment for some time now.
See the Instagram announcement below:
Madam Cecilia was a graduate of Theatre Arts at the University of Ibadan. Her Nollywood career spanned over two decades, beginning in the early 2000s.
She was widely regarded for her versatility as both a performer and behind-the-scenes professional.
Within the Abuja filmmaking circle, she was frequently cited for her commitment to professional ethics and her dedication to mentoring emerging talent.
Apart from Aki na Ukwa, she featured in movies including Games Fools Play, Beyond the Verdict, Circle of Lives, and Nwa Teacher.
Watch scenes from the Aki na Ukwa movie on YouTube below:
Reactions to Oby Kechere's passing
The news of Oby Kechere's passing has triggered sad reactions from social media users, especially coming after the recent passing of another Nollywood star, Solomon Akiyesi.
YEN.com.gh compiled some reactions below.
Tochukwu Nwike said:
"Very talented actress; she really made our days back then very memorable. We pray that heaven will accept your soul, RIP, DEAR SISTER."
James Zulu
"Cecilia, aka Ms Koi Koi, you will always be remembered from the movie which makes Zambians laugh ( Aki na Paw Paw )."
Prince Jude said:
"You will not see someone for a very long time. The first time he or she will appear no bad news. God, sorry to ask, but why?"
Henry Ampah said:
"Miss Koi Koi. When Amachi asked his children, " Who beats you"? They said Miss Koi Koi and he asked them again who Miss Koi Koi is. Both of them answered our Class Teacher. Awww Miss Koi Koi, may your soul rest in peace."
Melvina Tolbert said:
"This is all you get at the end of the day. It was a wasted life, and now where does her soul go? Cause hell is real and heaven too. This is the question lots of people need to ask themselves before chasing vanity upon vanity, things that do not matter. Giving yourself and your life unto God is the best gift anyone can receive from God."
Nollywood actor Umar Ascon dies
Previously, YEN.com.gh reported that Nigerian actor Umar Ascon had reportedly died after battling a prolonged illness, sparking an outpouring of grief from fans and colleagues.
The actor rose to fame for his role as Alhaji Lado Mai Barkono in the popular Kannywood television series Garwashi.
According to reports, Umar Ascon passed away at Malam Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital, with funeral prayers later held at Al-Masjlisul Islami Mosque.
Source: YEN.com.gh
