Popular Nollywood Actor Okoye is Dead

Popular Nigerian actor and academic Patrick Okoye has passed away.

The news was confirmed via a post on his Instagram account, which featured a photograph of him accompanied by the message, “Rest in peace, legend.”

Patrick Okoye, affectionately known as “Energy” by his fans and peers, held the position of professor in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University in Awka, Anambra State.

He gained recognition for his performances in traditional roles within Nollywood films.

Colleague Ken Erics expressed his sorrow over Okoye’s passing, calling it devastating. In a heartfelt tribute shared online, Erics mentioned that he had spoken with Okoye just 24 hours prior to his death.

He wrote, “This one hits hard because we spoke barely 24 hours before your demise, and you were hale and hearty.

“Getting a call from your number 24 hours after this devastation was the least expected. I don’t know where to begin. Indeed, the creative world has lost a gem!”

Erics said Okoye played a major role in his career and encouraged him to study Theatre Arts.

He added, “This man right here encouraged my talent and helped me pursue my dreams by making sure I enrolled in Theatre Arts. He, alongside other great minds, was my acting and dance teacher in my university days as a Theatre Arts student at UNIZIK.

“This man nurtured raw talents and made stars, many of whom are doing well in the entertainment space.”

He also recalled attending movie auditions with Okoye while he was still a student.

Erics said, “I remember, as a student, joining him in his car to attend movie auditions outside school sessions. His encouragement and guidance were palpable. Patosky!!”

Erics described the late actor as a complete artist, dancer, singer and mentor.

He wrote, “As all fondly called him, the theatre community was the lifeline of rehearsals and stage performances as a newbie in improvisation classes. A very energetic and skilled dancer! An exceptional actor!.

“And a great singer whose songs, some of which he introduced to our class for play productions, inspired me to do movie soundtracks. He was one of the first to take me to a recording studio to do backup vocals for his songs.

“Thank you, sir, for the nurture. I’m glad we got to do so many projects together professionally. A total artiste to the core! Death had dealt us a heavy blow. Rest with the Angels, Uncle Pat!

“May all your loved ones all over the world be comforted. Good night, Energy! Good night, Patosky! Good night, the Shimmer Master!! Rest well as you journey through the chthonic realm.”

Okoye rose to prominence through roles in films such as Onye Ozil, The Duplex and Midnight Love.

His film credits also include Old School, Finding a Wife, The Lion, The Jagaban and Over My Dead Body.