Actor Saidi Balogun learned of his daughter Zinat’s passing on Friday while preparing for his second stage show at Terra Kulture in Lagos.
The 57-year-old actor was performing in Asiyanbi: Ti Oluwa Nile alongside Aisha Lawal, Yomi Fash-Lanso, Yaw, and Kareem Adepoju (Baba Wande).
Zinat was Balogun’s first child from his previous marriage to Sherifat, which produced two children.
Earlier reports suggested that the movie star received the news of his daughter’s passing during a stage performance. However, a source told Gossipinfo on Saturday afternoon that Saidi had completed the first performance and was preparing for the second when he learned of Zinat’s death.
Following the tragic news, Saidi withdrew from the stage play.
As of this report, the cause of Zinat’s death remains undisclosed.
On Saturday, the actor shared an Instagram post hinting at his loss. The post featured a candlelight surrounded by flowers, accompanied by heartbroken emojis.
Condolences messages have been pouring in from his colleagues and fans.
Actress Faithia Williams, who is Saidi’s ex-wife and former stepmother of the late Zinat, also expressed her grief on Instagram with words of submission to the will of the Almighty.
She wrote, “Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’un (from Allah we come, to Him we shall return).”
Actress Ronke Oshodi Oke sent comforting words to Saidi in an Instagram post.
Actress Allwell Ademola shared a picture of a lit candle on her Instagram page with the caption, “I am speechless, I pray this is all a dream oh God! My Osenatu.”
“No words can ease the pain of losing someone so precious. My heart goes out to you @saidibalogun during this incredibly difficult time. May you find strength in the love and support surrounding you,” she wrote.
Other notable actors including Kunle Afod, Yomi Fash-Lanso and Adeniyi Johnson also extended their condolences.
Saidi’s marriage to Faithia produced two children — Aaliyah and Khalid.