Nollywood stars Rotimi Salami and Toyin Abraham have publicly mourned the passing of actress Tope Osoba, who died on August 5, 2026. The cause of her death remains unconfirmed, despite earlier reports suggesting cancer, a claim that has been disputed by colleague Alesh Sanni.
Outpouring of Grief on Instagram
Hours after the news broke, both actors turned to their Instagram pages to share their sorrow. Rotimi Salami posted a photo of the late actress with a heartfelt message: "Another Talent and a good heart gone again? Keep resting in God's arm Tope? I hate to type R I P so badly? Let's just live right ?" The post drew an outpouring of emotional responses from fans and colleagues.
Toyin Abraham expressed her grief in two Instagram Stories. The first was a simple, emotionally charged "Tope Osoba?????" The second, written in Yoruba, read: "Olorun oba, gbogbo e gan ti sumi jare ????? hahaaaa tope Osoba," which translates to "Oh God, this is too tiring."
Fans React to Tributes
Fans flooded Salami's post with condolences. One user, @stargirlashanty, wrote: "She called me 'darling sister' and my daughter 'my baby girl' she sent a script and asked for a professional video ? she was building something for her? Death interrupted, but the love remains ?you didn't just love my girl but you planned for her?the shoot never happened, but your love did ?we miss you BIG TEDDY ?" Another, @kafayat9912, commented: "??? l watch her movie today crying ??" Others expressed shock and sadness, with @austallionz noting: "So disheartening news ? Beautiful, lively and talented lady Rest in the bosom of the Lord ??"
Cause of Death Disputed
Legit.ng had earlier reported the confirmation of Osoba's death, but the exact cause remained unclear. Initial reports suggested she had been battling cancer, a condition she publicly disclosed on August 5, 2025. However, fellow actor Alesh Sanni came forward to dispute that account, stating that cancer was not responsible for her death, though he did not provide an alternative explanation.
Final Conversation Revealed
In a related development, Nollywood actress Habibat Jinad shared an emotional account of her last conversation with Tope Osoba before her passing. Jinad revealed she had felt divinely prompted to reach out, leading to an eight-minute prayer call with Osoba, which she later posted proof of on Instagram. While mourning her colleague, Jinad urged fans to always check on loved ones, stressing that no one truly knows the silent struggles others may carry.
