Saheed Balogun’s Family Reveals Cause Of Daughter Zeenat’s Death After Months Of Silence

The family of veteran Nollywood actor Saheed Balogun has revealed that his first daughter, Zeenat Balogun, died from sickle cell disease.

Zeenat, who was also an actress, passed away in October 2024, with her sudden death leaving fans and members of the entertainment industry searching for answers about what happened.

Months after her passing, her stepbrother, Kahlid Balogun, disclosed that she battled sickle cell anaemia before her death. He made the revelation while sharing a tribute video created by Saheed Balogun’s children and Zeenat’s friends to mark her posthumous birthday.

In his tribute, Kahlid described Zeenat as a strong and courageous woman who faced the challenges of sickle cell disease with grace.

“We only die when we are forgotten. Today, the Balogun family remembers and celebrates the life of our beloved firstborn, Zeenat Balogun,” he wrote.

He added that although her life was affected by the condition, she left behind memories and a legacy that continue to inspire those who knew her.

The tribute also coincided with efforts to raise awareness about sickle cell disease, celebrating those living with the condition and recognising the struggles of people affected by it.

Zeenat was the first child of Saheed Balogun from his previous marriage with Sherifat, before the actor later married actress Faithia Balogun.

Her death remains a painful loss for the Balogun family, but the tribute from her loved ones highlights her resilience and the impact she made during her lifetime.