If there’s one thing Nollywood knows how to do, it’s supporting themselves, whether for a blockbuster premiere, a glamorous wedding, or a moment of deep sorrow. Over the weekend, the industry’s biggest stars came together in Akwa Ibom for the burial of veteran actress father Ini Edo, Jonathan Ekim. What should have been a solemn affair turned into a blend of emotions, tears, heartfelt tributes, and, of course, the unmistakable glamour that follows the entertainment elite.

But honestly, If you were expecting a normal, somber funeral, you clearly don’t know how Nollywood rolls. From A-list celebrities in their best traditional attire to a grand procession fit for a king, Ini Edo’s father’s final farewell was nothing short of a spectacle.

Friends and Supporters

A Star-Filled Send-Off

Ini Edo is not just a Nollywood queen; she’s family to many in the industry. So, when it was time to lay her father to rest, her colleagues pulled up in full force. The guest list read like a who’s who of Nollywood royalty, with the likes of Rita Dominic, Uche Jombo, Kate, Mary Remi Njoku and Toke Makinwa  making grand entrances.

Desmond Elliot, who has perfectly blended politics with entertainment, was present, offering words of encouragement to Ini Edo. And of course IK Ogbonna, Ini best friend known for his flawless style, also attended, embodying the fusion of mourning and elegance that characterized the event.

The ceremony was a testament to the unity and friendship within the Nollywood community, with stars turning up in style to honor Ini Edo’s late father. And if  there was ever a way to combine mourning and style, the stars at this event certainly cracked the code.

Fashion Meets Tradition

Now, let’s talk about the outfits! Because, come on, did you think Nollywood celebrities would attend a high-profile event without making a fashion statement?

Ini Edo herself dazzled in a pure white attire, a perfect representation of grace and mourning. Her attire featured elaborate beadwork and designs, complemented by a well-styled gele (headwrap) and coral bead accessories, giving her a regal presence.

Guests for Ini Edo burial wore an aso-ebi in green and orange. And everyone showed up at their best, different styles and designs graced the occasion. It was another opportunity for Nigerian fashion designers to showcase their talent.

From the glamorous outfits to the heartfelt tributes, the event was a perfect blend of tradition, style, and deep emotion.

Toke Makinwa Graced The Event in Style

Tears, Tributes, and Fond Memories

As much as the event was a glamorous view, it was also deeply emotional. Ini Edo, known for her strong on-screen presence, broke down in tears multiple times during the ceremony. Her colleagues surrounded her, offering their support and warm embraces.

The funeral service was filled with heartfelt tributes, as friends and family members shared touching stories about her late father. He was described as a man of wisdom, a pillar of his community, and a loving father who always believed in his daughter’s dreams.

Uche Jombo, visibly moved by the eulogies, spoke about how Ini Edo’s father had always been a father figure to many of them in the industry. “He was our biggest cheerleader. He celebrated Ini’s wins as if they were his own, and today, we celebrate him,” she said, her voice thick with emotion.

Merlin Boss Standing Out

A Celebration of Life

In Nigeria the reception after the wake and burial is a different ball game. The atmosphere moved from sorrow to celebration as the guest moved to an open air reception. Filled with decoration and traditional music in the air.

A live band kept the mood alive, performing a mix of highlife, gospel, and Afrobeat tunes. Even in grief, the Edo family ensured that their father was given a grand send-off.

Guests enjoyed meals in local delicacies, from afang soup to jollof rice that had people going for second and third plates. Let’s be honest, no Nigerian gathering is complete without food that leaves guests licking their fingers.

Ini Edo

The Internet Reactions

With social media being the ever-watchful eye that it is, videos and pictures from the event flooded timelines. Nigerians praised the Nollywood family for standing by one of their own, while others debated the extravagant nature of celebrity burials.

One Twitter user wrote, “Nollywood burials be looking like AMVCA afterparties. Rest in peace to Ini Edo’s dad, though.”

On TikTok page, someone made a content picking on Ini Edo’s dance steps. “Why would Ini Edo be dancing like this on her father’s burial”

Another added, “Ini Edo’s dad must have been a great man to have so many stars turn up for him. May his soul rest in peace.”

However, not everyone was delighted. Some criticized her for attending a birthday party in Ghana shortly after the burial, calling it “insensitive.” But hey, grief is personal, and people cope with it in different ways.

Ini Edo’s Father

Final Thoughts

Losing a loved one is never easy for anyone, it was warming to see Nollywood celebrities give their support to Ini Edo in this difficult time. The ceremony was a perfect blend of tradition, love,fashion and star power.

Proving once again that in the Nigerian entertainment industry, family extends beyond blood ties.

To Ini Edo and her family, we send our deepest condolences. May Papa Jonathan Ekim’s soul rest in peace, and may his legacy continue to shine through those he left behind.

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