Jamal, son of Nollywood actor Saidi Balogun, has disclosed that his sister, Zeenat, passed away due to complications arising from sickle cell disease.
Zeenat, the actor’s first child from his previous marriage to Sherifat, died in October 2024. At the time of her passing, the exact cause of death was not made public.
A recent video shared on Instagram by Khalid, another of Balogun’s sons, showed family members and friends celebrating Zeenat’s posthumous birthday in her honour.
In the video, Jamal spoke about his late sister’s strength and resilience while living with sickle cell disease, noting that she refused to be defined by her condition.
He said she remained cheerful even during hospital admissions and was known for her positive spirit and impact on those around her.
“Zeenat Balogun died from complications related to sickle cell disease. She was a warrior who remained strong even in her moments of pain. She endured it with humility and strength, and it never defined any aspect of her life,” he said in the clip.
“She was a happy person. Even when she was admitted to the hospital, she remained jovial with everyone around her and always left a positive impact on those she met.”
In a caption accompanying the video, the Balogun family said the tribute also coincided with World Sickle Cell Day, aimed at celebrating Zeenat’s memory while raising awareness about the condition.
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“Today, the Balogun family remembers and celebrates the life of our beloved firstborn, Zeenat Balogun, on her posthumous birthday. Though her journey was marked by the challenges of Sickle Cell Anemia, she faced every battle with remarkable strength, courage, and grace, leaving behind memories that continue to inspire us every day,” the caption reads.
“As we honor her birthday, we also commemorate World Sickle Cell Day through this tribute video- raising awareness, celebrating resilience, and remembering the countless warriors fighting this condition. Zeenat may no longer be with us physically, but her love, light, and legacy remain forever alive in our hearts.”