Posted by By AZUH AMATUS on
The entertainment industry yesterday lost one of its leading lights with the sudden death of Muhammed Danjuma, one of the founding fathers of modern day comedy in the country.
The entertainment industry yesterday lost one of its leading lights with the sudden death of Muhammed Danjuma, one of the founding fathers of modern day comedy in the country.
Daily Sun learnt that the Kano State born comedian finally succumbed to death after a protracted battle with a terminal disease.
Before he died at a hospital in Victoria Island, Muhammed was first rushed to a specialist hospital in Apapa, Lagos, but had to be moved when his condition kept deteriorating.
"In hospital, most of his colleagues visited him. He was even supposed to perform at the recently held Nite of A Thousand Laughs, but could not make it due to his worsening health," a source told Daily Sun.
Top comedy producer, Opa Williams, while lamenting and reacting to Danjuma's death said it was a painful loss: "Danjuma had come a long way. This is a big blow to the comedy business in Nigeria. He was the first host of Nite of A Thousand Laughs in 1995. He was also billed to hand over the baton to the new generation of comedians at our Independence Day show, but could not make it due to his ill health."
Also reacting, Basorge Tariah, another leading comedian, said the nation has lost one of the best comedians ever produced. "We can't find another Muhammed Danjuma. He gave his all so that comedy will thrive in this country. It's a death most painful."
Bespectacled Danjuma, who was not married during his over 40 years sojourn on earth will be buried today at the Atan Cemetery, Yaba, Lagos.
"It is so sad and painful that Danjuma who started a programme with me two years ago is no longer alive to share our dream with me. He was a pal, colleague and a brother," lamented Justice Atigogo, who packages "Meet Your Legislators" with the late Danjuma.