As Saint Obi Laid to Rest in Imo State…
As Saint Obi is laid to rest in his hometown of Alaenyi Ogwa, Imo State, Excel Magazine International delves into the remarkable life and career of this cherished actor, celebrating a life well-lived journey.
The Nigerian entertainment industry bid a tearful farewell to one of its most beloved icons, the late Nollywood actor, Obinna Nwafor, affectionately known as Saint Obi. The actor, renowned for his charismatic performances and captivating on-screen presence, was laid to rest in his hometown of Alaenyi Ogwa, Imo State, on Friday.
Saint Obi’s untimely demise on May 7, 2023, in Jos, at the age of 57, sent shockwaves across Nigeria and beyond. Fans, colleagues, and industry insiders came together to celebrate his illustrious career and pay their last respects.
A Multi-Talented Luminary:
Saint Obi was a multifaceted talent, excelling as an actor, film producer, and director. He etched his name into Nollywood history with unforgettable roles in classic movies such as ‘Sakobi,’ ‘Last Party,’ ‘Candle Light,’ ‘Heart of Gold,’ ‘Festival of Fire,’ ‘Executive Crime,’ ‘State of Emergency,’ and ‘Goodbye Tomorrow,’ to name just a few. His dynamic performances earned him a special place in the hearts of movie enthusiasts across Nigeria and beyond.
The Journey to Stardom:
Saint Obi’s journey to stardom began in 1996 when he catapulted into the limelight through a Peugeot television commercial. His charisma and magnetic screen presence were undeniable, propelling him to feature in over 90 movies during his illustrious career.
A Pioneer in Filmmaking:
In 2001, Saint Obi ventured into film production with his debut movie, “Take Me to Mama.” He not only produced the film but also portrayed the character of Jerry, showcasing his versatility as an actor. The movie, featuring stellar performances from Ebi Sam, Rachel Oniga, Nse Abel, and Enebeli Elebuwa, marked a significant milestone in his career.
Legacy of a Legend:
Saint Obi’s legacy in Nollywood extends beyond his on-screen contributions. His passion for the industry, dedication to his craft, and his role in nurturing emerging talents have left an indelible mark. He also majored in Theatre Arts at the University of Jos, further cementing his commitment to the world of entertainment.
The Final Farewell:
The funeral proceedings in Alaenyi Ogwa were attended by a throng of mourners, including colleagues from the entertainment industry, family, friends, and devoted fans. Tears flowed freely as tributes poured in for the departed actor, underlining the profound impact Saint Obi had on the world of Nigerian cinema.
Saint Obi’s passing is a significant loss to Nollywood, but his memory will continue to live on through the countless hours of entertainment he provided to audiences and the inspiration he instilled in aspiring actors. As the sun set on his final journey home, it marked the end of an era in Nollywood, but the legend of Saint Obi will forever shine bright on the silver screen.
