Jide Kosoko and Others Mourn the Passing of ‘The New Masquerade’ Star, Ovularia

Veteran Nollywood actor, Jide Kosoko, expressed his condolences on Tuesday following the passing of Elizabeth Evoeme, fondly remembered as Ovularia from the iconic 1980s TV sitcom, ‘The New Masquerade.’ She was 81 years old.

Speaking from Lagos, Mr. Kosoko reminisced about working alongside the late actress, praising her discipline and significant contributions to the entertainment industry. He fondly recalled their time together on ‘The New Masquerade,’ where he was a guest artiste, highlighting her professionalism and commitment to her craft.

“We lost another gem though at a ripe age. I pray the almighty God grants her soul a peaceful rest. We worked together on ‘The New Masquerade.’ I was a guest artiste at the time. She was just fantastic. May her soul rest in peace and may God continue to keep us that are still alive. Her virtue of discipline that has to do with keeping to call time, submitting to the directors’ wish at all time and other professional ethics she stood for, should be emulated by all other actors,’’ Mr. Kosoko remarked.

Similarly, Adebayo Salami, known as “Oga Bello,” expressed shock at Evoeme’s passing, emphasizing that while they will miss her dearly, her legacy lives on in their hearts and minds.

“We are all getting older but no one wants to die. We are going to miss her but her legacies still remain with us. We love her but God loves her most,” he added.

Fred Amata, another prominent actor, also shared his disbelief at the news, reflecting the sentiments of many in the industry.

Evoeme’s family announced her passing in a statement, expressing gratitude for the outpouring of love and support from fans and colleagues. They described her as a beloved figure, both within her family and among her fans, and requested privacy during this difficult time.

“Friends, fans, colleagues, the family of the legendary actress, Elizabeth Lizzy ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme, would like to notify the public, all those who loved her and her work in ‘The New Masquerade,’ of her passing. Elizabeth ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme will be dearly missed and was extremely loved by her family and also by you, her fans. We thank you all for your support and for respecting our privacy at this time. God bless you all and may our dear Elizabeth ‘Ovularia’ Evoeme rest in perfect peace, now and always.”