“Urgent Appeal: Nollywood Icon in Need of Kidney Transplant”
Nollywood Icon He lies in bed, his chest bandaged, struggling to speak.Seated beside him, another actor explains that Muonagor urgently requires funds for a kidney transplant.This plea surfaces amidst Nigeria’s grief over the recent passing of Nollywood icon John Okafor, popularly known as Mr Ibu, who also battled health issues.
Nollywood Icon
In a video unveiled on Monday, a visibly distressed Muonagor manages to utter in Igbo: “Igbo people, I greet you all.”
However, he is unable to continue, and actor Kingsley Orji steps in, revealing that the veteran actor is grappling with kidney-related complications.
“He has been enduring this condition for months now. He desperately needs a kidney transplant,” Orji discloses.
“He only just returned from the ICU a few days ago. While he was responding to treatment, it wasn’t satisfactory. Due to financial constraints, we brought him home, although it’s not ideal. His speech is barely audible. Please, he urgently requires your assistance,” Orji pleads.
The video has evoked an outpouring of sympathy, with many offering prayers and financial support for the ailing actor.
Muonagor’s health ordeal, coupled with Mr Ibu’s recent demise, underscores the significant healthcare challenges faced by Nollywood actors.
Due to their payment structure, which is largely project-based, many lack access to health insurance or the means to afford regular medical expenses. Although efforts by the Actors Guild of Nigeria have secured insurance coverage for the industry, not all performers have enrolled.
Throughout his illustrious career, Muonagor has featured in numerous films, notably in “Aki and Paw Paw,” where he portrayed the father of two mischievous teenagers.
Despite facing competition from foreign film industries, Nollywood remains a dominant force in Nigerian and broader African entertainment circles.
