Veteran Yoruba Nollywood actor Musiliu Dasofunjo, popularly known as Baba Johunomi, has publicly revealed that he is battling prostate cancer, disclosing his diagnosis days after the industry mourned the death of fellow veteran actor Taiwo Hassan, known as Ogogo, who also died following a cancer battle.
In a video shared by actor Kunle Afod on Facebook, Dasofunjo urged the public to heed early warning signs, admitting his condition might have been less severe had he recognized symptoms sooner. "It might not have gotten to this stage if I was aware of the symptoms earlier," he said.
Initial Symptoms Ignored
The actor recounted that his first warning sign was a change in his urine stream. "I first noticed a change in my urine. I was having a splitting urine stream, my urine sprays into different directions instead of single flow. But I didn't take it serious," he explained.
According to Dasofunjo, the symptoms worsened over time, eventually making urination difficult before he sought medical attention. "After some time, I started having trouble urinating before I was advised to visit the hospital. I have done many tests and scans. I was referred to UCH in Ibadan, where the specialist said they needed to cut part of my flesh to do another cancer test," he said.
Fear of Procedure and Public Appeal
The actor expressed visible apprehension about undergoing the recommended biopsy, saying he is currently unable to consent to it. Despite his fear, he chose to share his story publicly to help others catch similar warning signs earlier. "I'm sharing this for people to learn and be informed because cancer is now on the rise," he stated.
Dasofunjo's disclosure comes at a sombre time for Nollywood, following the recent death of Ogogo, who died after a brief but aggressive battle with stage-four cancer. Ogogo's death and the public appeals his daughters made in his final weeks seeking treatment drew widespread attention, reigniting conversations about cancer awareness and access to care for ageing Nollywood veterans.
No Further Details Yet
As of publication, Dasofunjo has not disclosed further details about his treatment plan or given an update on whether he has decided to proceed with the recommended biopsy procedure.
