In a heartfelt interview, veteran Nollywood actress Patience Ozokwor, affectionately known as Mama G, addressed the rising trend of untimely deaths among actors in the Nigerian film industry.
During a recent chat with our reporter in Lagos, she attributed these tragic losses to the negligence and carelessness displayed by many in the profession.
Reflecting on the challenges faced by her peers, Mama G emphasized that the passion for their craft often overshadows the need for self-care.
“When you are doing something you are enjoying, you won’t bother to take care of your health. Once there is life in you, you keep doing what you are doing. And it’s something that pays back on your body,” she stated.
Her comments come in the wake of the funeral of beloved comic actor John Okafor, better known as Mr. Ibu, who passed away late last month. Mama G shared her emotional experience at his burial in Enugu state, revealing that it was a moment of profound realization.
“I broke down in tears… it was when I realized that this man is gone forever,” she recalled. The poignant moment struck her when she approached his body and called out to him as she always did, only to be met with silence.
Addressing the issue of health care, Mama G criticized the tendency of some actors to neglect proper medical attention.
“Some people are so careless that when they are sick, instead of going to the hospital for a proper check-up, they prefer to visit a chemist or a pharmacy to buy a pain reliever. It’s no longer safe with me,” she cautioned. She believes that the desire to entertain and uplift audiences often comes at the expense of personal well-being.
Mama G’s candid remarks serve as a wake-up call to her fellow actors, urging them to prioritize regular health check-ups and to make lifestyle changes that promote longevity and vitality.
“We are trying to put smiles on the faces of people while forgetting to take care of our health,” she noted, highlighting the need for a balance between professional obligations and personal health.
Beyond her acting career, Mama G is also known for her spiritual journey. Currently serving as an evangelist, she reflected on her transformation following a significant encounter with her faith, which she claims has guided her purpose in life.
She expressed hope that her colleagues would heed her advice and take proactive steps towards maintaining their health.
As the Nollywood community grapples with the harsh reality of losing prominent figures, Mama G’s message resonates loudly: the importance of self-care and the need for a collective effort to ensure the well-being of those in the entertainment industry.
In a world where actors often sacrifice their health for their passion, her insights provide a crucial reminder that true longevity lies in prioritizing one’s health above all.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members
