Veteran Nollywood actor, Clarus of New Masquerade, dies at 85

Veteran Nollywood actor, Davis Ofor, popularly known as Clarus in the 1980s sitcom, New Masquerade, is dead.

The news of his passing was announced on Tuesday by a fellow actor, Tony Akposheri, in an Instagram post.

Akposheri expressed shock and sadness over the death of the actor, recalling their recent interactions.

He revealed that they had recently spent time together during the New Year, sharing memories and discussing future plans.

“Today, my heart is heavy. Davis Ofor, fondly known as Clarus from New Masquerade, is gone.

“We crossed into the New Year together, laughing, talking, sharing memories, and speaking hopefully about the days ahead,” he wrote.

“We spoke about life, about plans, about how far we had come. None of us knew that time was already counting differently for you.”

Describing the late actor as more than just a screen personality, Akposheri paid tribute to his character and impact.

“You were more than a familiar face on screen. You were a friend, a brother, a man with warmth, humour, and a presence that could light up any space,” he wrote.

“It is hard to believe that the voice I heard not long ago is now a memory. Hard to accept that someone so full of life can suddenly become a story we tell.”

He added, “Rest well, my friend. You came, you gave joy, you made your mark, and you will never be forgotten.”

Clarus gained prominence for his role in New Masquerade, one of Nigeria’s most popular television comedy shows, where his character became a household name.

Details surrounding the cause of his death were not immediately available.

Ofor rose to prominence for his role as Clarus in New Masquerade, a widely acclaimed Nigerian television comedy that aired on the Nigerian Television Authority and became a household favourite in the 1980s.

His portrayal of the comic character earned him national recognition and endeared him to audiences across the country, making Clarus one of the most memorable figures in Nigerian television history.(Punch )