The family of Nigerian film producer and director Ladi Ladebo has announced his death at the age of 78.
A statement signed by his second daughter Precious Ladebo-Osagie disclosed that he died in London on April 16. The family plans to bury him there on May 7.
The statement reads: “With gratitude to God for a life well lived, we announce the passing on to glory of our dearly beloved, Husband, Father and Grandfather, Raymond Oladipupo Ladebo who passed away peacefully on Friday the 16th of April 2021 in London United Kingdom; he was 78 years old.
“An intimate memorial service will hold on May 7th, 2021 in London UK. Ladi was survived by his wife Irene Ladebo, his 3 daughters and 2 grandchildren.”
Born on May 7, 1942, Ladebo’s productions include Cool Red (1976) and Bisi, Daughter of the River (1977). He worked with American actor Ossie Davis in Countdown at Kusini (1974).
Uncle Ladi, as many fondly called him in the film and media circuits in Nigeria, won many awards; including best script, best photography, best director and best feature film for Vendor at the first Nigerian Film Festival in 1992.
He was a contemporary of the late Adeyemi Afolayan, actor and father of Nollywood icons Kunle and Gabriel Afolayan, who took the stage name Ade Love.