Funke Akindele faces backslash for celebrating 49th birthday hours after Ogogo’s death

Nigerian Filmmaker Faces Backlash for Birthday Celebration Following Colleague’s Death

Nigerian filmmaker Funke Akindele is under criticism for celebrating her birthday shortly after the death of actor Ojo Arowosafe, popularly known as Ogogo. Reports indicate that Ogogo passed away on Sunday, August 23, 2026, after a prolonged battle with cancer. His burial took place on Monday, August 24, according to Islamic traditions.

Following Ogogo’s death, Akindele expressed her condolences on social media. However, she later shared images from her 49th birthday celebration on the same day as Ogogo’s burial.

The timing of her celebration elicited strong reactions from the public, with many accusing her of insensitivity. Commenters on her posts highlighted the significance of Ogogo’s contributions to the industry, urging her to consider postponing her celebration out of respect for the recently deceased actor.

One commenter, addressing her directly, wrote, “Aunty Funke, shame on you! We are mourning the death of Ogogo while you’re posting about your birthday. This is not fair.”

Another user noted, “Wrong timing, Aunty Funke. He was one of your bosses at the Odunfa Caucus. This is just another example of fake love and pretense in the industry.”

Further comments ranged from expressions of disappointment to suggestions that she should have chosen to honor Ogogo instead. “If I were you, I would have forgone the celebration for the year,” one commenter stated while still wishing her well.

Others echoed sentiments of caution, advising her to reconsider the implications of celebrating during a time of mourning. “Why don’t you shift your birthday celebration to another day? You just lost a prominent person in your industry,” wrote another user.

As public discourse continues, many remain vocal about the expectations of sensitivity in times of loss, especially within the entertainment community.

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