The Theatre Arts and Motion Pictures Practitioners Association of Nigeria, Ogun State Chapter, has announced the death of Nollywood actress Atinuke Kareem, who passed away after a battle with breast cancer.
The news of her passing was officially announced on Tuesday by her colleague and the Executive Governor of TAMPAN Ogun State, Owolabi Ajasa, via an official statement posted on his Instagram page.
The statement was accompanied by a video clip of Kareem seeking support and prayers during her battle with breast cancer, highlighting the physical toll of the illness.
In the video, Kareem revealed that she had been battling breast cancer for some time and that her family had spent a lot of money on her treatment. She also said TAMPAN had provided assistance, but the support was not enough to meet her medical needs.
Kareem appealed to Nigerians to support her financially, saying she had two young children and did not want to die from the illness.
Atinuke Kareem seeking support to treat breast cancer. Credit: Instagram| owolabiajasa1
In the release signed by the state Public Relations Officer, Femi Solaja, on behalf of Ajasa, the association expressed deep appreciation to colleagues, fans and well-wishers who provided financial and moral support during the actress’s medical battle.
The association appreciated everyone who contributed financially, offered prayers, encouragement and other forms of support towards the treatment of Kareem, noting that their kindness and sacrifice during her difficult moment meant a lot to her family and members of the association.
The association further expressed sorrow over her demise, describing it as an irrecoverable loss that members must accept as the will of God.
According to the association, despite the efforts and prayers made during her illness, Kareem had passed on and answered what it described as the final call.
The association said it could not question God’s decision but could only submit to His will, while praying for the actress’s eternal rest and for strength for her family, colleagues and loved ones to bear the loss.