Veteran Nollywood Actor Diewait Ikpechukwu Dies at 71
Veteran Nollywood actor, Diewait Ikpechukwu, has died at the age of 71, leaving the Nigerian movie industry mourning the loss of another experienced performer.
Ikpechukwu reportedly died on Thursday, November 5, 2026, after battling a prolonged illness, according to family sources. His death was confirmed by the National President of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), Abubakar Sanusi-Yakubu, who paid tribute to the late actor in a social media post.
“Another Legend bows out!! RIP Diewit Ikpechukwu,” the AGN president wrote.
Before establishing himself in the Nigerian film industry, Ikpechukwu had a background in football and broadcasting.
He reportedly played as a right winger in the 1970s and featured for teams including Blue Diamonds of Nsukka and Kaduna Rocks. He also received an invitation to the Green Eagles, Nigeria’s former national football team.
He later worked as a sports commentator and was employed by the defunct Nigerian Telecommunications Limited (NITEL), where he served in marketing before retiring.
Ikpechukwu built a career spanning over 25 years in Nollywood and became recognisable for portraying traditional rulers, elders and influential figures.
His feature-film debut came in the 1998 production Evil Men, in which he played a traditional ruler alongside established actors, including Pete Edochie.
Other films associated with his career include Royal Palace, The Guilty, The Guilty 2, Across the River, Python King and Ìjé Love.
He also featured in the Nigerian Television Authority production Second Chance, which helped his transition into acting.
Beyond acting, Ikpechukwu was actively involved in the Actors Guild of Nigeria and served as chairman of its Enugu State chapter.
He was also recognised for encouraging younger actors to develop their skills, remain patient and approach their careers with professionalism.
His death represents another loss to Nollywood, particularly among performers whose work helped shape the industry over several decades.
As of the time of this report, details of his funeral arrangements had not been publicly announced.
May his soul rest in peace.
