The Nigerian film industry, Nollywood, was cloaked in sorrow on Friday as it laid to rest one of its own, actress, producer, and filmmaker Allwell Ademola. The final rites were held in Lagos, drawing a crowd of grieving colleagues, friends, and family members who came to pay their last respects.
Emotional Final Farewell and Industry Tributes
The somber ceremony saw Allwell Ademola's coffin lowered into the grave, a moment that proved too emotional for many present. Videos from the burial captured several colleagues struggling to hold back tears. Among those visibly moved was actress Liz DaSilva at the graveside. The event was attended by notable figures including actors Rotimi Salami, Biola Adebayo, Saheed Balogun, and Kunle Afod.
This final act followed a candlelight procession held in her honour on Thursday night. The procession was led by actors Fathia Balogun, Femi Adebayo, and Iyabo Ojo. It began just hours after a well-attended service of songs organized at LTV8 in Lagos.
Service of Songs: Reconciliation and Legacy
The service of songs was a major gathering point for the industry. A long list of Nollywood personalities attended, including:
- Wumi Toriola
- Afeez Owo
- Faithia Williams
- Mr Latin
- Odunlade Adekola
- Eniola Ajao
- Yemi Solade
- Bakare Zainab
- Foluke Daramola
- Jigan Babaoja
During the service, Rotimi Salami, described as one of Ademola's closest friends, delivered a heartfelt tribute. He appealed for forgiveness on behalf of the late actress, stating, "If there's anyone Allwell has offended, directly or indirectly, please, forgive her and keep praying for her." He emphasized the importance of preserving her legacy, urging unity to ensure "all that she has done stay with us."
The event also became a stage for reconciliation. Ademola's brother publicly apologized to actress Iyabo Ojo for comments he made in a video posted in December 2025. Addressing Ojo directly, he said, "please ma, don't be offended. I did not mean to abuse you, I was not referring to you at all."
Controversy and Clarification Over Support
The brother's apology referenced a prior video where he had criticized some Nollywood colleagues for what he called "insincere tributes." In that emotional outburst, he questioned the public displays of love after her death, contrasting them with a perceived lack of support for her projects like 'Eniobanke' and 'Jagun Jagun' while she was alive. He specifically mentioned names including Lateef Adedimeji and Iyabo Ojo.
In response to those earlier claims, Iyabo Ojo had defended her record, insisting she had "over supported" Ademola. She listed contributing to her movies for free and providing financial and emotional backing as evidence of her genuine support during the actress's lifetime.
Allwell Ademola passed away on December 27, 2025, at the age of 49, after suffering a heart attack at her residence. Known for her work across Yoruba and English-language films, she is remembered by colleagues as a passionate creative who generously supported many within the Nollywood industry. As the final chapter closes, her legacy remains a topic of reflection and celebration amidst the grief.
