A night of tribute was organized at the Lagos State Television complex, Blue Roof Agindigbi, on Sunday, May 21, 2023, by Nollywood stars and friends of the late actor, Murphy Afolabi.
Murphy passed away at the age of 49 in his residence in Ikorodu, Lagos State, a few days after celebrating his birthday.
Videos circulating online depicted celebrities grieving and mourning the loss of Murphy during the tribute.
Notable Nollywood personalities present at the event included Olaiya Igwe, Kelvin Ikeduba, Yemi Solade, Richardo Agbor, Adekola Tijani, Toyosi Adesanya, and Murphy Afolabi’s students.
Actors Adekola Tijani, Yemi Solade, and Richardo Agbo also took the opportunity to reflect on the life and legacy of the departed actor.
Contrary to widespread speculation, Yoruba actor Ifeoluwa Gbadegeshin, popularly known as Mr Fresh, shared additional details about Murphy Afolabi’s passing.
Gbadegeshin clarified that Afolabi did not suffer a head injury in the bathroom, as initially rumored.
Earlier reports had suggested that the actor’s death was a result of a bathroom accident.
However, speaking at the funeral, Gbadegeshin revealed that Murphy had been recovering from an illness.
He explained that Murphy collapsed while preparing to take a bath after vomiting, and despite the efforts of those around him to assist, it was too late.
Ifeoluwa further disclosed that Murphy had been making arrangements for a production and had just finished a phone call instructing someone to inform the movie’s cast before his untimely demise.