By Oyinkansayo Wole-Bodunde.
The Nigerian film industry came together today, Friday, to bid a final farewell to actress, producer, and filmmaker, Allwell Ademola, who was laid to rest in Lagos.
The burial was an emotional moment, with many colleagues and friends in attendance, including: Liz DaSilva, Rotimi Salami, Biola Adebayo, Saheed Balogun, and Kunle Afod.
The burial was preceded by a candlelight procession and a service of songs, which saw a large turnout of people, including prominent figures such as Wumi Toriola, Afeez Owo, Faithia Williams, and Odunlade Adekola.
During the service, Rotimi Salami delivered a heartfelt tribute, stating Allwell Ademola’s positive impact on those around her. He said, “If there’s anyone Allwell has offended, directly or indirectly, please, forgive her and keep praying for her.” He also said, “I think the only thing we can actually do is to find a way in unity to keep her legacy. Even if she’s gone, let all that she has done stay with us and be with us.”
There was also a moment of reconciliation at the service, as Allwell Ademola’s brother apologized to Iyabo Ojo for comments he made after his sister’s passing. He said, “Please ma, don’t be offended. I did not mean to abuse you, I was not referring to you at all.” Allwell Ademola’s brother had earlier made a video criticizing some Nollywood colleagues for their perceived hypocrisy. In the video, he had expressed frustration with the insincere tributes being paid to Allwell Ademola, saying “All the ‘Rest in Peace’ messages and public displays of love are fake and hypocritical. Where was this love when she was alive?”
Iyabo Ojo had responded to these claims, stating that she had supported Allwell Ademola during her lifetime. She said, “I over supported your sister when she was Alivee, when she was building her career as Producer and director, I featured in her movies countless times for free, and I also supported her financially and emotionally. May her beautiful soul continue to rest in perfect peace.”
Allwell Ademola, a talented actress and filmmaker, passed away on December 27, 2025, after a heart attack at her home, leaving behind a legacy in the Nigerian film industry.
