The Nigerian film industry is mourning the death of actor Chijioke Temidayo Nwokafor, popularly known as Cjay, after actress Nkechi Blessing announced his passing on Wednesday, September 30, 2026.
Blessing shared the news on Instagram alongside videos of moments she had spent with the actor. She expressed shock over his death, revealing that they had spoken earlier that morning, only for her to receive news of his passing a few hours later.
The actress had been preparing to release her film, Egusi Ogbono, at 5 p.m. on Wednesday. However, she cancelled the scheduled release after receiving confirmation of Cjay’s death from a hospital. The actor had featured in the production.
In her tribute, Blessing expressed disbelief at the loss and reflected on the plans they had made together. Her message highlighted how unexpectedly the news had reached her after their earlier conversation.
Other members of the film industry also reacted with shock. Actor Charles Born said he had intended to visit Cjay at the clinic but learnt of his death before he could do so.
Actor Emeka Nwagbaraocha also expressed disbelief in a post on X, saying he had exchanged messages with Cjay only a few days before the news emerged. His reaction reflected the shock being expressed by colleagues who had recently been in contact with the actor.
Cjay began his acting career in 2021 and appeared in several Nollywood productions, including Larry Cold, Mum Overnight and A Day to My Wedding. He was from Anambra State and had been building his presence in the Nigerian film industry through his appearances in film projects.
In an interview published shortly before his death, Cjay spoke about how his early experience on a film set helped inspire his decision to pursue acting professionally. He recalled working on a production involving filmmaker Ruth Kadiri and said watching the actors at work influenced his interest in the profession.
He also discussed how some people perceived his personality, explaining that those who considered him arrogant did not necessarily understand his character.
As tributes continue, further details about the circumstances surrounding his death remain limited. Neither the cause of death nor funeral arrangements had been publicly disclosed by his family and colleagues at the time of reporting.
The cancellation of Egusi Ogbono also means the film’s planned release has been postponed, although no new release date was announced in the reports available.
Cjay’s death has prompted colleagues to reflect on their recent interactions with him and the work they shared. For now, tributes from fellow actors remain the most visible public response, while more information about his final days and funeral arrangements is awaited.
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