The family of late Nollywood actress, Tope Osoba, has dismissed widespread reports alleging that she died from complications related to breast cancer, describing the claims as false, speculative and unauthorised.
Osoba passed away on Tuesday evening, shortly after speaking with some of her colleagues over the telephone. Before her death, the actress reportedly updated her WhatsApp status with the Yoruba phrase “Ogo Tuntun,” meaning “new glory,” at about 7:23 p.m.
Following news of her passing, several social media users and online platforms claimed that her death was linked to her previous battle with breast cancer.
However, in a statement shared on the actress’ official Instagram page on Thursday, her family firmly denied the reports, insisting that the cause of her death had not been disclosed.
“We are deeply saddened by the spread of false and unverified reports concerning the passing of our beloved,” the statement read.
“At this difficult time, we wish to categorically state that the numerous claims circulating on social media and various blogs regarding the circumstances surrounding her death are false, speculative and entirely unauthorised.”
The family urged the public to refrain from spreading unverified information, stressing that the misleading reports had intensified their grief during an already painful period.
They appealed to Nigerians to rely only on official statements and avoid promoting misinformation surrounding the actress’ passing.
According to the family, details regarding Osoba’s death and funeral arrangements will be communicated through her official social media platforms at the appropriate time.
