Okemesi, Other Prominent Nigerians That Has Died As A Result Of Medical Complications

Popular Yoruba comic actor Bamidele Tope Saint, widely known as Okemesi, has passed away after a prolonged battle with health challenges.

He died on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, while undergoing treatment at a hospital. Fellow actor Tony Montana disclosed that Okemesi fell into a coma after experiencing adverse reactions to medication administered during his care.

In an emotional Instagram video, Montana announced:
“With a heavy heart, I’m announcing to the world that Okemesi is dead. The doctor pronounced him dead at exactly 11:50 a.m. this morning, February 24, 2026. Okemesi is gone.

“So, on behalf of the entire Bamidele family, I’m announcing to the world that Oluwatope Bamidele Saint Okemesi is dead. We have taken the body to the morgue. I will communicate the rest of the arrangements to you guys. We appreciate every one of you who turned up for him. May God forgive Okemesi and rest his soul.”

Days earlier, actor Jeff Owolewa had informed the public that Okemesi was in critical condition after reacting negatively to prescribed drugs. Although he had recently been discharged, his condition reportedly worsened, necessitating urgent medical attention.

Owolewa explained that several hospitals initially declined to admit him due to a shortage of bed space, including a government facility in Igodo. He was eventually readmitted to the private hospital where he had first received treatment.

At the time, he was placed on oxygen support, with reports indicating slight improvement in his breathing.

Recounting the events, Jeff said:
“Guys, Okemesi has been hospitalised again. He was sleeping all through Saturday and Sunday without having much appetite for food due to complications from the drugs that were given to him from the hospital when he was discharged last week.

“I rushed to his house very early on Monday to take him to hospital. He was rejected in different hospitals including a government hospital in Igodo, the doctor refused to attend to him saying there’s no bed space. I have to take him back to the first private hospital that started his treatment. So they admitted him, and stabilised him.

“His breathing is improving. So, he has been in coma since Monday morning. They have placed him on oxygen. We’re all praying that he gets back on track,” he added.

In recent weeks, Okemesi had moved into a new apartment secured through donations from supporters following a public fundraising campaign aimed at assisting him during his illness and earlier housing difficulties.

Who Was Okemesi?

Bamidele Oluwatope Saint, affectionately known as Okemesi, was a beloved Nigerian actor, comedian, and content creator known for his vibrant performances and natural comic timing.

While exact birth records for Okemesi are not widely published in mainstream sources, he was recognized as a prominent figure in the Yoruba film genre and social media comedy scene. Okemesi was celebrated for his unique blend of English, Yoruba, and Ekiti dialect humour, which endeared him to audiences across Nigeria.

He first gained widespread attention through online comedy skits and talent platforms such as the De9jaSpirit Talent Hunt, where crowds were drawn to his energetic stage presence and storytelling flair. Okemesi also acted in several Nollywood productions, including Dearest, Aborisade, Mebamu, and The Order, showcasing his versatility across both English-language and Yoruba-language films.

In the weeks prior to his death, Okemesi publicly appealed for help due to ongoing health struggles and housing instability. Well-wishers eventually helped him secure a new apartment, but his health continued to deteriorate, ultimately resulting in the complications that led to his death.

Other Prominent Nigerians Who Have Died From Medical Complications

Several notable Nigerians have also lost their lives due to medical issues, underscoring gaps in healthcare and the impact of complications that arise during treatment:

Ifunanya Nwangene: A rising Nigerian singer and former The Voice Nigeria contestant, Nwangene died on January 31, 2026, after a deadly snake bite. Although she sought treatment at medical facilities in Abuja, complications related to delays in antivenom treatment contributed to her passing, prompting public debate about antivenom availability and emergency care in Nigerian hospitals.

Nkanu Nnamdi: The late son of acclaimed author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie died in early 2026 following alleged medical errors at a Lagos hospital. Adichie has publicly accused the facility of negligence, citing an overdose and mishandling during his treatment that led to seizures and cardiac arrest, although the hospital denies the claims.

Dr. Bekolari “Beko” Ransome-Kuti: Veteran physician and human rights activist Beko Ransome-Kuti died on February 10, 2006, from lung cancer complications at Lagos University Teaching Hospital, highlighting the long-term health battles faced by even well-known medical professionals.

Tosyn Bucknor: The respected media personality and radio host passed away on November 19, 2018, due to complications from sickle cell anaemia, a genetic disorder that remains a common health challenge in Nigeria and globally.

The deaths of Okemesi and other prominent Nigerians due to medical complications bring into sharp focus ongoing concerns around patient care, emergency response, and healthcare infrastructure. Each of these losses has resonated deeply across Nigerian society highlighting the need for improved medical systems, better access to essential treatments, and stronger support networks for patients and families.