Veteran Nollywood actress Omotunde Ogundimu has made an emotional appeal for financial assistance after revealing that she has been battling cervical cancer since 2025.

The actress disclosed her health struggles during an interview with fellow actress Biola Adebayo on the Talk to B podcast, where she spoke candidly about the physical, emotional and financial toll the illness has taken on her and her family.

Ogundimu, a widow and single mother of three, said she has endured severe pain while her children have exhausted their resources trying to fund her treatment.

"I'm going through severe pain. I was diagnosed with cervical cancer. I don't know where I got it from. I don't look for people's trouble; I'm an easy-going person," she said.

She explained that although some individuals have supported her privately, the financial burden has become overwhelming.

"My children have spent all they have. They are now exhausting their income on me. They can no longer care for themselves, but I thank God for blessing me with my children."

The actress revealed that she had initially resisted asking the public for help but now feels she has no other option.

"I had refused to seek help from the public, but as it is now, I don't have any option other than to do it. Nigerians, please have mercy on me. I just want to be healed. The pain is severe."

Ogundimu also reflected on the personal hardships she has faced over the years, revealing that she lost her husband in 2012 and has been raising her three children alone ever since.

Beyond her health challenges, the actress lamented what she described as being sidelined in the movie industry despite dedicating 35 years of her life to Nollywood.

She said repeated appeals for acting opportunities had yielded little success and emotionally asked for forgiveness from anyone she may have offended.

"I don't usually get jobs. I have called my colleagues in the industry to beg them for movie roles, but none of them did. Please, if I offended anyone in the industry, please forgive me. I use God to beg you. I have been doing this job for 35 years."

Her heartfelt appeal has drawn attention to the struggles many veteran entertainers face when confronted with serious health and financial challenges.

Opinion:

Omotunde Ogundimu's story is a sobering reminder that fame does not always guarantee financial security or access to adequate healthcare. Beyond offering sympathy, her appeal raises broader questions about the welfare of veteran actors who have spent decades entertaining audiences yet often face hardship later in life. While colleagues, fans and well-wishers may rally around her, the recurring nature of such appeals highlights the need for stronger healthcare support systems, insurance schemes and welfare structures within the Nigerian entertainment industry to protect its pioneers when they need help the most.