Veteran actress Ngozi Ezeonu has come under heavy criticism from fans after she paid tribute to her late colleague, Nkechi Nweje.
Ezeonu took to social media to express her shock and sorrow over Nweje’s passing, admitting that she had no knowledge of her health struggles. The actress described Nweje as one of the kindest people she had encountered in the Nollywood industry, emphasizing the deep pain of losing someone so dear.
“It is so difficult to believe you are gone, ezigbo nwanyi Onicha. I never knew you were ill. So I will never see your ever-smiling face again. Nkechi, you were one of the nicest people I met in Nollywood. This is indeed a big blow. GO WELL, MY BEAUTIFUL SISTER,” she wrote.
However, Ezeonu’s tribute has stirred controversy, as many fans questioned how someone so close to Nweje could be unaware of her health condition. Some social media users expressed disappointment, arguing that the Nollywood industry lacks unity and genuine concern among colleagues.
A user, @jeffemekason, commented, “Aren’t you people supposed to be in a group WhatsApp to check on each other and have meaningful conversations together? You all were so close in movies.” Others echoed similar sentiments, suggesting that actors should do more to support one another outside of film sets.
Another user, @iam_stanleyscofied007, was particularly vocal about the issue, expressing frustration over what he perceived as neglect within the industry. “You never knew she was sick??? You guys don’t care for each other! It’s very wrong of you guys!!! No love in Nollywood,” he wrote.
The criticism continued as @officialmandy7222 called out the industry for what she viewed as a lack of care and camaraderie. “Shame on you people in the industry, I swear! So you people don’t care about each other or check on each other? Chai, RIP my legend,” she stated, highlighting the growing perception that Nollywood stars only engage with one another in professional settings.
The backlash against Ezeonu’s tribute has ignited a larger conversation about the relationships within Nollywood. While fans grieve the loss of Nkechi Nweje, many believe the tragedy should serve as a wake-up call for actors to build stronger bonds beyond their work environment.
The criticism reflects a growing concern among fans that many in the entertainment industry only show support after a colleague has passed away, rather than being present during difficult times. The emotional reactions have sparked debates on the need for Nollywood figures to foster deeper connections and genuinely check on one another’s well-being.
Despite the criticism, Ezeonu’s tribute was heartfelt, and many fans still sympathized with her grief. Some defended the actress, arguing that people should not be quick to judge, as not everyone publicly shares their struggles.
Others pointed out that personal battles with illness can sometimes be kept private, even from close friends. Nevertheless, the situation has once again drawn attention to the need for greater solidarity among Nollywood stars.
Whether this discussion will lead to a shift in how actors support one another remains to be seen, but one thing is clear—Nkechi Nweje’s passing has left an undeniable impact, not just on her colleagues but on the Nollywood industry as a whole.
