A veteran actor passed away

According to reports, veteran Nigerian actor John Onyechiyanyere Amaefule, better known by his stage name Pinijay, passed away at the age of 79 following a protracted struggle with a stroke. On Saturday, January 24, 2026, the actor's family posted an obituary announcing his passing. Reports indicate that he passed away many weeks ago, albeit the precise date of his death has not been made public. According to reports, John Amaefule died while undergoing medical care at the Federal Medical Center in Owerri.