Reported by Weng Patrick Atokor l Journalist at Weng Global
Nollywood actress Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha has announced the death of her father, Leonard Ndukaife Chukwuka, in an emotional message shared with her followers on Friday, October 2, 2026.
The actress, who is also widely known as Chioma Akpotha, disclosed the loss in a post on Instagram, saying her father had “gone to be with the Lord.”
Chioma Chukwuka mourns loss of father
In her tribute, Chukwuka described her late father as her “daddy,” “papa’m,” “obara’m” and “comfort,” reflecting on the important role he played in her life.
She said the loss was particularly painful because her mother died 13 years ago, leaving her without either parent following her father’s death.
The actress also expressed gratitude for the life her father lived and for the opportunity he had to see his children and grandchildren.
She reflected on the difficulty of losing a parent regardless of age, noting that people often continue to wish for more time, conversations and moments with their loved ones.
Actress kept father’s death private while grieving
Chukwuka explained that she had initially kept the news of her father’s death private as she tried to process her grief before making the announcement publicly.
She asked members of the public to keep her, her siblings and the wider Chukwuka family in their prayers during the period of mourning.
The actress also indicated that funeral arrangements would be communicated by the family when they were ready.
She ended her tribute by referring to her father as the “Olowo of Ikate” and expressing her enduring love for him.
A personal loss for the Nollywood actress
The death marks another major family loss for Chukwuka, who lost her mother 13 years ago.
While details surrounding Leonard Chukwuka’s death, including his age and cause of death, were not disclosed in the reports reviewed, the actress said she was thankful that her father lived a long life and witnessed his children and grandchildren.
The family has not yet announced funeral arrangements publicly.
Chioma Chukwuka’s career in Nollywood
Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha is an established figure in Nigeria’s film industry and has built a career spanning more than two decades.
She has featured in numerous Nollywood productions and received major recognition for her acting, including the 2007 Africa Movie Academy Award for Best Actress in a Leading Role.
Her public announcement of her father’s death has since prompted messages of sympathy and support from fans, colleagues and other members of the public.
For now, the actress is mourning privately with her family while seeking prayers and support from the public.
What happens next
The Chukwuka family is expected to provide further information about funeral arrangements when preparations are finalised.
Until then, Chukwuka has asked the public to remember her, her siblings and the entire family in their prayers as they grieve the loss of Leonard Ndukaife Chukwuka.
Weng Global – Stories beyond borders
Sources
- Vanguard — report on Chioma Chukwuka-Akpotha announcing her father’s death.
- Punch — report on the actress’ announcement and tribute to her father.
- TVC News — report on the death announcement.
- Legit.ng — report on Chioma Akpotha’s announcement and family loss.
