Veteran Nollywood actor Diewait Ikpechukwu dies at 71

Veteran Nollywood actor Diewait Ikpechukwu has died at the age of 71.
What happened
According to family sources, the actor died on Thursday, 5 November 2026, after a prolonged illness. News of his death was reported on Friday. Further details about the circumstances of his death had not been made public at the time of writing, and the family had not announced funeral arrangements.
His career
Before becoming an actor, Ikpechukwu was a professional footballer. He went on to have a long career in Nollywood and became a familiar face in classic Nigerian films. His film credits include 'August Meeting', 'Royal Palace', 'The Guilty', 'Across the River', 'Python King' and 'Ìjé Love', among many others.
Background
His death adds to a run of losses for Nollywood. The family of the late actor Francis Duru also recently announced burial arrangements for him.
- Ikpechukwu died on Thursday after a long illness.
- He was a former professional footballer.
- He starred in films including August Meeting and Royal Palace.
