Veteran Nollywood actor, Diewait Ikpechukwu, has died, with his passing sparking tributes from members of the entertainment and sports communities in Enugu State.
Ikpechukwu reportedly died in the early hours of Friday following an undisclosed illness, weeks after the death of another veteran Nollywood actor, Francis Duru.
His death was announced by the Veterans All Stars International Football Club, Enugu, where he served as patron, in a statement signed by Charles Okonkwo on behalf of the club’s management.
Akelicious reports that the club described the late actor as a foundational pillar, passionate sportsman and father figure whose contributions and influence extended beyond the movie industry.
According to the statement, Ikpechukwu developed a strong passion for football from an early age and played as a right-winger before venturing into acting. Despite his transition into the entertainment industry, he maintained close relationships with members of the football community.
The club further disclosed that he previously worked as a business office manager with the Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL) before retiring from corporate service to concentrate on his acting career.
During his more than two decades in Nollywood, Ikpechukwu reportedly featured in over 200 films, earning recognition for his portrayal of traditional rulers, respected elders and other complex characters.
Despite his achievements in the movie industry, he remained based in Enugu, where he maintained strong ties with the local chapter of the Actors Guild of Nigeria.
The statement revealed that the late actor had been scheduled to attend a Veterans All Stars training session sponsored by Chief Donald Igwebuike on Saturday, October 10, 2026, but took ill a day before the event.
Describing his death as a significant loss to both the entertainment and football communities, the club recalled his warmth, generosity, guidance and unwavering support for veterans’ football in Enugu.
The club extended its condolences to his immediate family, colleagues in the entertainment industry and members of the football fraternity, praying for strength and comfort for those mourning his death.
It added that the family would announce details of his funeral arrangements in due course.
