Nigerian actor and academic, Patrick Okoye, has passed away, with the news confirmed through a post shared on his official Instagram account.
The post featured his photograph alongside the simple caption: “Rest in peace, legend”, sparking an outpouring of tributes from colleagues and fans.
Popularly known as “Energy”, Okoye was a lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, Anambra State. He was widely respected for his contributions to theatre education and his strong performances in traditional film roles.
Nollywood actor Ken Erics also confirmed the news in an emotional tribute, describing the loss as deeply painful.
“This one hits hard because we spoke barely 24 hours before your demise, and you were hale and hearty,” he wrote.
He added, “Getting a call from your number 24 hours after this devastation was the least expected. I don’t know where to begin. Indeed, the creative world has lost a gem!”
Erics went further to highlight Okoye’s impact on his personal and professional journey, describing him as a mentor who shaped his early career in theatre arts.
“This man right here encouraged my talent and helped me pursue my dreams by making sure I enrolled in Theatre Arts. He, alongside other great minds, was my acting and dance teacher in my university days as a Theatre Arts student at UNIZIK,” he said.
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He also recalled their close relationship during his student days, noting Okoye’s support in auditions, rehearsals, and music projects.
“This man nurtured raw talents and made stars, many of whom are doing well in the entertainment space,” he added.
Erics described him as a multi-talented performer, saying, “A very energetic and skilled dancer! An exceptional actor! And a great singer…”
Okoye, fondly called “Patosky” by colleagues and students, was known for his versatility and influence in theatre training and stage production.
He featured in several Nollywood productions including Onye Ozil, The Duplex, Midnight Love, Old School, Finding a Wife, The Lion, The Jagaban, and Over My Dead Body.
His death has been described across the industry as a huge loss to both academia and Nollywood.