The Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood, has been thrown into mourning over the passing of actress Oby Kechere, known for her role as Ms Koi Koi in the hit comedy film Aki na Ukwa.

The news of her death was announced by the Directors Guild of Nigeria (DGN) on Friday, May 1, 2026, through its official Instagram page.

Sharing a picture of the actress, the guild, through Uche Agbo, the national president, wrote: “It is with deep sorrow and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Madam Cecilia Oby Kechere, Vice Chairman of the DGN Abuja Chapter."

According to the guild, it was informed that Kechere passed on Monday, April 27, 2026, after a prolonged illness. On behalf of the National Executive Council and the entire DGN family, I extend my deepest condolences to her family, loved ones, and all members of the Abuja Chapter in this difficult time. May her gentle soul rest in perfect peace," the DGN statement read.

Oby Kechere was a Nigerian actress and director who featured in Nollywood films from the early 2000s. She was famous for her role in Aki na Ukwa Aki na Ukwa, where she played Ms Koi Koi.