A dark cloud hovers over the Nigerian entertainment industry as beloved actress Funmi Awelewa has publicly mourned the passing of rising skitmaker Sanku, whose sudden death has left fans and fellow creatives in shock and sorrow.
Funmi Awelewa, a respected figure in Yoruba-language cinema and a household name in Nollywood, took to her social media platform on Monday to express her grief and disbelief over the news. In an emotional Instagram post, the actress shared a photograph of the late skitmaker alongside a short but powerful tribute.
“Ha Sanku! This one is hard to believe. You did not deserve this. Rest well, my dear,” Awelewa wrote, adding several crying emojis and broken heart symbols to reflect her anguish.
Sanku, whose real name has yet to be officially confirmed by his family, was known for his vibrant presence across digital platforms, particularly on Instagram and TikTok, where his humorous skits had gained him a growing and dedicated fan base. His content often explored everyday experiences of Nigerians, touching on themes of hardship, resilience, and community, while weaving in humor that resonated across age groups.
Though young in his career, Sanku had already begun making waves in the competitive landscape of online comedy. His unique style, characterized by spontaneous wit, expressive body language, and relatable scenarios, earned him praise from both fans and established comedians alike. Many in the entertainment industry saw him as one of the next breakout stars in the skit-making space.
The news of his passing has triggered an outpouring of tributes on social media, with hashtags such as RIPSanku, SankuLivesOn, and GoneTooSoon trending across Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook. Fans have posted their favorite clips from his skits, recalling the joy and laughter he brought into their lives, especially during difficult times.
Funmi Awelewa, who had shown support for Sanku’s work in the past and had reportedly worked with him behind the scenes, appeared especially heartbroken by the loss. Sources close to the actress revealed that she had been mentoring several up-and-coming talents, including Sanku, and had spoken highly of his discipline and dedication to his craft.
“This one pained me deeply,” another post from her Instagram story read. “Such a young and talented soul. Nigeria has lost a star too soon.”
The cause of Sanku’s death remains unclear as of the time of this report. Unconfirmed sources suggest that he had been battling an undisclosed illness for several months, though he had continued posting content intermittently, keeping the extent of his health struggles away from the public eye.
Industry stakeholders are calling for greater support structures for entertainers, especially young digital creatives who often work in isolation and face immense pressure to stay relevant without the safety nets that traditional film or television actors might have.
Nollywood actors, comedians, and content creators including Mr Macaroni, Woli Agba, Kiekie, and others have joined the public in paying tribute, with many emphasizing the importance of mental and physical health awareness within the entertainment industry.
A fan wrote on Twitter, “Sanku always made me laugh when I was down. His skits were a reflection of real life, with a touch of grace and humor. This hurts more than words can say.”
Funeral arrangements are yet to be announced by the family, who have requested privacy during this period of grief.
As the entertainment world continues to process this tragic loss, Sanku’s work remains a testament to the power of laughter and authenticity. His legacy, though short-lived, has left an indelible mark on Nigeria’s digital comedy landscape.
source: thenationonlineng.net
