Nollywood actor Patrick “Energy” Okoye has died, with news of his passing confirmed through a post shared on his Instagram page.
The announcement featured his photograph alongside the message, “Rest in peace, legend.”
The late actor, who also served as a professor and lecturer in the Department of Theatre Arts and Film Studies at Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK), Awka, was widely respected in both academic and entertainment circles.
His colleague, Ken Erics, also confirmed the development via an Instagram post on Friday, expressing shock over the sudden loss.
Erics wrote, “This one hits hard because we spoke barely 24 hours before your demise, and you were hale and hearty! Getting a call from your number 24 hours after this devastation was the least expected. I don’t know where to begin.”
He added that the late actor was a major influence on his career, saying, “Indeed, the creative world has lost a gem! 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.”
Describing him further, Erics said, “This man nurtured raw talents and made stars, many of whom are doing well in the entertainment space… A very energetic and skilled dancer! An exceptional actor! And a great singer whose songs inspired me…”
He concluded, “Thank you, sir, for the nurture… Death had dealt us a heavy blow. Rest with the Angels, Uncle Pat! Good night, Energy! Good night, Patosky! Good night, the Shimmer Master!! Rest well as you journey through the chthonic realm.”
Okoye was known for playing roles such as Igwe, Onowu, and other elder characters in films. He featured in productions including “Midnight Love”, “Old School”, “Finding a Wife”, “The Lion”, “The Jagaban”, and “Over My Dead Body”, among others.
