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Actress Ajara Lasisi, known as Aunty Ajara, has died at the age of 28 after being hospitalised with a critical medical condition related to liver disease for a week. The news that the star, who was pregnant, had died was confirmed by Nollywood director, Tobi Oladele Teemony, also known as Tee Mony, in a statement on Instagram. "With heavy hearts, we announce the passing of our beloved actress, Aunty Ajara. She passed on overnight after a long and courageous battle with illness," he wrote. He added the star had received "immense love, prayers, and financial support from kind-hearted people across the world" during her illness.

Her brother Ridwan Lasisi also confirmed the news in a video message shared on social media in which he expressed the family's gratitude for the support she had received during her illness. "Good morning to you all. My name is Ridwan Lasisi. I am a brother to Ajara. The doctor confirmed to us this morning that Ajara has passed on. All the families, we are using this period to appreciate you all," he said.

"We also use this opportunity to appeal to those sending money not to send it anymore. The one we are contributing for her sake is no more," he continued.

"Thank you so much. We do not want you to send money into that account again," he said, referring to a fundraiser which had been set up for her treatment, which had raised over 5 million Naira (around £26847).

Ajara's illness first came to public attention at the end of January when an appeal was made for money to help fund her treatment.

She was seen in the hospital on a social media video wearing an oxygen mask, saying: "Please help me." Actress Mama No Network subsequently appealed for support for the star, claiming her condition was deteriorating.

"Good evening, everyone. I'm here because of Ajara. It was you guys who advised us that the way we posted RIP is too much. Please, for God's sake, I'm pleading with you. Ajara is in critical condition.

"This is not content. We need public financial support and serious prayers. It's not that Ajara has not been working, but she has been using most of her earnings to care for her mother, who is suffering from a stroke.

"The funniest part is that she's pregnant. I'm also surprised to now hear that she's also battling a liver-related illness".

Other celebrities who had appealed for support for Ajara included actress Kemity, actor Jamiu Azeez, actress Bimpe Oyebade, and singer Lanre Alewilese.