At 11:50 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026, laughter faded for millions of fans across Nigeria as Bamidele Tope Saint, affectionately known as Okemesi, passed away at 54. The Ekiti-born comic actor, celebrated for his wit and memorable Yoruba skits, had begun receiving the help he desperately needed, but it arrived too late to save him. Friends, colleagues, and fans are now left to mourn a man whose humour brightened screens, even as he battled the harsh realities behind the scenes.
Who Was Bamidele Oluwatope “Okemesi”?
Born on August 2, 1971, in Okemesi, Ekiti-State, Bamidele Oluwatope Saint, known professionally as Okemesi was a beloved Nigerian comic actor, content creator, and stand-up comedian. In 2021, he celebrated his 50th birthday, marking half a century of life lived with creativity and connection to his audience.
Okemesi was best known for his work in Nollywood’s Yoruba sector, where his signature blend of Yoruba, and his native Ekiti dialect gave his performances a unique style that endeared him to fans of all ages. His comic timing, expressive delivery, and ability to weave humour out of everyday experiences made him both relatable and memorable.
His rise to prominence included participation in the De9jaSpirit Talent Hunt, where his stand-up routines won recognition and helped him gain a loyal following. Over the years, he appeared in films including: Dearest, produced by Kunle Afod, Aborisade, Mebamu, The Order, Odaran Meta, Sidi Atilaka (2021), Okete Aye (2023).
Through these works, Okemesi carved a niche as both a comic character and a serious contributor to Nigerian storytelling, while staying deeply connected to his Ekiti roots.
The Struggles Behind the Curtain
Behind the laughter, Okemesi faced severe personal and health challenges in late 2025 and early 2026. In viral video clips while talking to actor Jeff Owolewa, he attributed his deteriorating health and significant weight loss to a “spiritual attack” that left him partially paralysed and reliant on crutches.
He also revealed financial hardship, describing a period of homelessness and difficulty affording medical care. Fans and colleagues rallied, organising fundraising campaigns that eventually helped him secure a new apartment and medical assistance.
Spiritual interventions with his uncle’s cleric in Osogbo reportedly helped him regain partial mobility, but even as assistance arrived, his body continued to battle complications. His openness about these struggles offered a rare and humanizing glimpse into the life of an entertainer often seen only through the lens of humour.
The Final Hours
Okemesi’s final days were marked by medical complications from recent treatment. On Saturday, February 21, he reportedly slipped into a coma and remained on oxygen support until he was pronounced dead at 11:50 a.m. on Tuesday, February 24, 2026.
In the days leading up to his final hospitalization, Jeff said the actor had been weak, spending most of the weekend asleep and eating very little. He was taken to about three different hospitals as efforts were made to help him but they refused to attend him.
His passing was officially announced by his close friend and colleague, Jeff “Tony Montana” Owolewa, barely 2 weeks after securing a new apartment for Okemesi from donated funds. He confirmed the sad news on behalf of the Bamidele family, saying:
“With a heavy heart, I am announcing to the world that 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.”
Reactions and Tributes
Fans and colleagues flooded social media with tributes, reflecting both grief and frustration over systemic healthcare challenges.
Regina Chukwu wrote:
“Jesuuuuuuuuuuuu🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲🥲he cried outttt. Just when you were abt to start enjoying Tope Saint.”
Kiitan Bukola commented:
“Damn …… 🥲”
yeyetoyintomato lamented:
“Hmmmm! May his soul rest in peace 💔💔💔😭😭 what is d problem with our health services in Nigeria? No bed for an emergency at the General Hospital😭😭”
A Bigger Conversation
Okemesi’s story raises questions about healthcare access and welfare for entertainers in Nigeria. His public appeals, fundraising campaigns, and final health complications underscored the fragility of support systems for creative professionals.
Fans, colleagues, and netizens reflected on broader issues like inadequate hospital capacity, financial vulnerability among artists, and the lack of structured industry assistance. As yeyetoyintomato noted, the tragedy highlighted the urgent need to address failures in Nigeria’s health services.
Conclusion
Bamidele Tope Saint, fondly remembered as Okemesi, leaves behind more than films and skits. He leaves a legacy of joy, resilience, and authenticity. The laughter he shared with audiences across Nigeria and beyond was a gift, yet behind that humour was a man who faced life’s harshest realities with courage, faith, and honesty. His passing at 54, even as help began to arrive, reminds us that the brightest lights can flicker too soon and that our entertainers are human, too, deserving of care and support.
As fans replay his performances, share his skits, and recall his signature Ekiti dialect humour, Okemesi’s voice will continue to echo as a testament to the enduring power of laughter, even in the face of life’s most difficult battles.
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